A packed public hearing was held before the regular city council meeting in city hall’s Rotunda Feb. 18.

The public hearing addressed the privately proposed Zoning Map amendment requested by BPG Investment II LLC, represented by Kolb, Vasiliadis, Florenz, and Recchiuti. The requested change is 11 West Garrison St. from RT-High Density Residential to CB-Central Business District. The petitioner owns several parcels that are adjacent to the proposed land development zoning to permit mixed use development in the project.

Developer Gabe Moyer explained that there are nine land parcels – in the amended request there would be more parking and the overall height would be lower. It would also include retail space and possibly starter homes. and more two-bedroom units. The developers’ goal is to build a 70-unit apartment building with commercial/retail space on the first floor and to do that they need the zoning to be amended. Attending residents were presented a “Conceptual Plan’. Basically two different buildings, the first building has zoning approval. The second building needs a zoning amendment to be built, and this is the developers’ preference. The pictures favored the pro-amendment building as being more desirable and the approved building being less.

Residents from Garrison Street spoke against the project – citing the traffic issues – starting with Garrison being one way and inadequate parking for existing residents. Can Garrison handle the increased traffic? A sink hole on Garrison was mentioned by residents. Other residents voiced concerns regarding a need for retail space – would there be more empty store fronts? Also, many people expressed a fear that Bethlehem is losing its charm – too many modern buildings fewer small local neighborhoods. Finally, residents questioned the price point on these apartments – would the average worker be able to afford to live here? No final decision was made on the zoning.

The regular meeting brought forth more concerns and requests to make Bethlehem a “Welcoming City, ” which is a potential alternative to the sanctuary city model. Sanctuary policies focus on limiting cooperation with immigration authorities; welcoming cities are more generally focused around creating a welcoming and supportive environment for immigrants – and for everyone. Lifelong residents, Moravian alumni, Lehigh students and others all spoke, urging council to proclaim Bethlehem a Welcoming City.