The Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce played host to the mayor’s annual budget address Oct. 30 in Moravian University’s Foy Hall. Residents, business owners, investors and politicians were present for the informative gathering.

Saying Bethlehem is experiencing a renaissance, Chamber Chairperson Ann Marie Supinski spoke of economic stability, new businesses, new guests and new revenue that had helped Bethlehem’s continued growth.

Mayor J. William Reynolds agreed, adding, “The city’s development can be seen in all departments while delivering safety in a cost-effective way.” Reynolds’ proposed budget includes adding fire and safety equipment and an additional training class for more firefighters. Eight more police vehicles are also part of his proposal. He promised city employees, ”The city will always keep its salary and health care obligations.”

Other expected expenditures are salaries ($1.25 million) and insurance costs ($354,647), plus a pension increase in 2025 of $1.9 million.

Despite the planned expenditures, Reynolds’ proposal weighs in at 2025 spending at $112.4 million; about a million less than in 2024.

New long-term revenue, estimated at about $2 million, includes nontax increase (natural) funds and new real estate revenue, the latter specifically from the expansion at Wind Creek Casino.

The first budget reading was scheduled for last night, and the final reading is scheduled for Dec. 17.