Residents demand action on dangerous living conditions
August 20, 2024 | Bethlehem, Lehigh and Northampton Counties, Pennsylvania
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During a recent city council meeting, residents voiced urgent concerns regarding housing conditions, public safety, and community events, highlighting significant issues affecting their quality of life.
One resident, Miss Russell, detailed severe problems in her home, including leaks, mold, and pest infestations. She described living with her son in a deteriorating environment, where rainwater leaks into her home and squirrels have taken residence in her ceiling. Russell expressed frustration over the lack of action from her building management and the city, despite her extensive documentation and previous complaints. She emphasized the health risks posed by black mold and the deteriorating structure of her home, pleading for assistance as she struggles to find affordable housing.
In a shift to community safety, resident Artie Kiritola raised concerns about the effectiveness of surveillance cameras installed in Bethlehem. He recounted a personal experience where $7,000 was stolen from him in a public library, only to discover that the surveillance camera in the area was not functioning. Kiritola criticized the city for not maintaining these security measures, calling them \"scarecrows\" that fail to deter crime.
Another resident, Frank Martimor, addressed traffic safety issues in his neighborhood, specifically at the intersection of Ravenwood Drive and Bonnie Drive. He reported near-misses with speeding vehicles and advocated for the installation of speed bumps to protect pedestrians and children in the area.
Lastly, Teresa O'Toole brought attention to the management of horse waste during the city's annual music festival. She noted that waste from police horses is often left unaddressed in high-traffic areas, creating health risks and unpleasant experiences for festival-goers. O'Toole suggested a coordinated effort between the police and city officials to ensure timely cleanup during events.
The council members encouraged residents to engage with city officials for follow-up discussions on these pressing issues, emphasizing their commitment to addressing community concerns.
One resident, Miss Russell, detailed severe problems in her home, including leaks, mold, and pest infestations. She described living with her son in a deteriorating environment, where rainwater leaks into her home and squirrels have taken residence in her ceiling. Russell expressed frustration over the lack of action from her building management and the city, despite her extensive documentation and previous complaints. She emphasized the health risks posed by black mold and the deteriorating structure of her home, pleading for assistance as she struggles to find affordable housing.
In a shift to community safety, resident Artie Kiritola raised concerns about the effectiveness of surveillance cameras installed in Bethlehem. He recounted a personal experience where $7,000 was stolen from him in a public library, only to discover that the surveillance camera in the area was not functioning. Kiritola criticized the city for not maintaining these security measures, calling them \"scarecrows\" that fail to deter crime.
Another resident, Frank Martimor, addressed traffic safety issues in his neighborhood, specifically at the intersection of Ravenwood Drive and Bonnie Drive. He reported near-misses with speeding vehicles and advocated for the installation of speed bumps to protect pedestrians and children in the area.
Lastly, Teresa O'Toole brought attention to the management of horse waste during the city's annual music festival. She noted that waste from police horses is often left unaddressed in high-traffic areas, creating health risks and unpleasant experiences for festival-goers. O'Toole suggested a coordinated effort between the police and city officials to ensure timely cleanup during events.
The council members encouraged residents to engage with city officials for follow-up discussions on these pressing issues, emphasizing their commitment to addressing community concerns.
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