The City of Wilkes-Barre Council held a combined session on December 19, 2024, addressing various community concerns and proposals. The meeting began with a discussion on the potential conversion of a street sign to an electronic digital format, which was met with no questions from council members.

A significant topic of discussion was the increasing presence of food trucks in the city. Council member Belousco raised concerns about the proliferation of food trucks, particularly their impact on brick-and-mortar businesses. The mayor acknowledged the existing regulations but indicated a willingness to explore amendments to better manage the situation. The council discussed the need for food trucks to pay taxes similar to traditional businesses, emphasizing fairness in the local economy. The mayor suggested researching how other municipalities handle food truck regulations to inform potential changes.

The council also addressed the condition of street signs, specifically mentioning a damaged sign at East Chestnut and Pen Avenue. The mayor assured that the issue would be resolved promptly.

Another key point was the status of MotorWorld, a local business facing potential relocation. The mayor reported ongoing discussions with the company, emphasizing the city's advantages, including its robust public safety services. The council expressed concern over the financial implications of losing the business, particularly regarding mercantile tax revenue.

Additionally, council members raised minor issues, such as the need for maintenance on a concrete sign at Hurley and East Main and a request to clear overgrown vegetation on Scott Street to improve pedestrian safety.

In closing, council members expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts throughout the year and extended holiday wishes to the community. The meeting highlighted ongoing efforts to balance business interests, community safety, and regulatory measures in Wilkes-Barre.