During the hearing of persons present agenda item at the Oct. 3 Northampton Borough Council meeting, Vito Gallo requested a resolution to have the borough act as a public applicant to seek grants. Gallo represented an organization that wants to develop the former PNC Bank at 21st and Main streets.

The plan is to improve and develop the building to house retail establishments and apartments.

Gallo noted approximately $1.3 million of private-match dollars would be needed to satisfy grant requirements. The former bank building was built in 1901 and is considered, by the developer, an anchor building for development because of its location, size and abundant parking.

In order to move the project forward, Gallo noted borough council will need to pass a resolution that would permit the borough to pursue grant funding through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.

Gallo said there is no cost or burden to the borough. He noted officials and elected leaders toured the building and provided tacit approvals.

Northampton Mayor Anthony Pristash said the former PNC Bank is “a battleship building in town. It is a centerpiece uptown.” He sees the potential project as a great opportunity for Northampton.

Council Vice President Ronald Glassic expressed concern about the apartments potentially planned for the 21st and Main streets project because there are already a high number of apartments in Northampton.

A resolution, with borough solicitor approval, is expected at the next council meeting.

In other business, Lehigh Valley Community Benefit was approved for traffic control for the 14th annual Tucker’s Toy Run, scheduled for Nov. 2. The rain date is Nov. 3. In previous years, the Northampton Fire Police assisted with this event.

Council appointed borough Manager Brian Welsko to be the chief administrative officer for the three existing municipal pension plans. The administrative officer is not a decision maker but signs documents as needed.

Councilman Kenneth Hall noted Heidelberg Materials U.S. Cement LLC donated $2,500 to the Atlas Cement Company Memorial Museum.

Councilwoman Judy Haldeman said a meeting was held with representatives from the Cindy Miles Adaptive Fund, which is guiding the potential upgrade of the borough’s Fourth Street Playground. Haldeman added the plan for the park includes a completely accessible park with gardens, new playground equipment and more to benefit Northampton children and families.

Glassic said the Fourth Street Playground plan, if completed, will be state of the art. The effort will require community support to be a success.

Pristash reported Northampton is moving into fall with the upcoming Jack Frost Parade and trick-or-treat night.

Additionally, he said, investment on Main Street continues, and the Fourth Street Playground plan will result in a gorgeous park.

All these are making Northampton a designation community and increasing Northampton’s quality of life, Pristash said.

Borough Solicitor Stephanie Steward informed council Pennsylvania House Bills 1976 and 2045, if passed, may interfere with borough zoning. Her recommendation is for council to oppose those two bills. Council will address the issue at the next council meeting.

The next borough council meeting is set for 7 p.m. Oct. 16 in the municipal building, 1401 Laubach Ave. It is a hybrid meeting, with both in-person and YouTube viewing options. Visit northamptonboro.com on how to access the council meeting.