On May 19, 2022 Mayor Reynolds presented key elements of his State of the City Address. Upon seeing our 4 Way Test Banner, he immediately commented on the parallels of Rotary to the focus of the City.
Following is a list of the topics discussed:
Dedicated employees & high level services throughout the community
Business & Nonprofit assistance for Pandemic Recovery
Demand to Live, Work & Play in Bethlehem – more jobs, growing population
Investment in New Construction
Financial picture is very strong. Bethlehem highest bond rating of any city in PA
Pandemic recovery effectively managed
Affordable Housing – major challenge all over. 15,000 units short in LV
Homelessness support – a growing challenge
Goal is to help all people in the community
World heritage site designation is very significant deal
The Mayor highlighted how the Affordable Housing situation is impacted by the ever increasing desirability of people who live here are happy and continue to stay in the LV.
Overall, recognizing significant challenges being addressed not just in Bethlehem but with our sister communities, the future of the city is strong and focused on sustainable growth. We thanked Mayor Reynolds for taking the opportunity to engage with MSR!