Minutes of the Council of the City of Easton, Pa.  March 13,2024  Easton, Pa. Wednesday March 13, 2024 6:00p.m.  City Council met in the stated session at the above date and time, in Council Chambers, located on the Third Floor of City Hall, 123 S. Third Street, to consider any business that may lawfully be brought before the body.  The invocation was given by Mayor Panto, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.  ROLLCALL  Present: Mr. Edinger, Mr. Pintabone, Mrs. Rose, Dr. Ruggles, Mrs. Sultana, Mayor Panto (6)  Absent: (0)  Also Participating in the meeting were. Karen Roscioli, City Clerk; Luis Campos, City Administrator (phone in); Joel Scheer, City Solicitor; Jeremy Clark, Assistant Solicitor; Chief Scalzo, 11 Easton Police Officers  At the beginning oft the meeting there were 24 in attendance.  APPROVALOF AGENDA  A motion to approve the agenda was made by Mr. Pintabone and seconded by Mr. Edinger Yeas: Mr. Edinger, Mr. Pintabone, Mrs. Rose, Dr. Ruggles, Mrs. Sultana, Mayor Panto  by the following vote: Nays: None (0)  ACTION ONTHE MINUTES  A motion was made by Dr. Ruggles and seconded by Mr. Pintabone to approve the meeting minutes. The  minutes were approved by the following vote.  Yeas: Mr. Pintabone, Mrs. Rose, Dr. Ruggles, Mrs. Sultana, Mayor Panto, Mr. Edinger  Nays: None (0)  PRESENTATION BY CHIEF SCALZO(copy attached)  Mayor Panto made opening comments before Chief Scalzo. Mayor Panto spoke of  the respect he has for our police officers. The men and women on our police force have made our city safe. Mayor Panto stated he receives accolades about our police department everywhere except for one council  person. (Mayor's comments attached)  Mr. Pintabone read a statement on Mr. Browns behalf (statement attached)    Chiefs Scalzo made his presentation to City Council and residents of Easton in response to allegations made by Councilwoman Taiba Sultana. Mrs. Sultana, a person ofleadership and trust in our community made allegations ofracism, political corruption and socio-economic bias against thel Easton Police Department after she was arrested July 2023 for domestic violence. Video Bodycam footage oft the arrest was also shown. (Chief Scalzo's  statement attached)  PUBLIC COMMENT - Agenda Items Only  There was no public comment at this time.  CONSENT AGENDA  The following items were approved on motion by Dr. Ruggles and seconded by Mr. Pintabone by the following  vote:  Resolution 36-2024 - Resolution rescinding Resolutions 29-2022 and 158-2023 for two (2) City ofE Easton recruits to attend the Fire. Academy free of charge.  Resolution 37-2024 - Resolution providing un-used fire apparatus to Allentown Fire Department in exchange Resolution 38-2024 - Resolution Authorizing DCED to apply for National Park Services Semi Resolution 39-2024 Resolution authorizing City Solicitor to sign Stipulation on settlement agreement Resolution 40-2024 - Resolution amending the Climate Action Plan with two changes Yeas: Mr. Edinger, Mayor Panto, Mr. Pintabone, Mrs. Rose, Dr. Ruggles, Mrs. Sultana (6)  quincentennial Grant Program ($145,110.90)  Resolution 41-2024 - Resolution rescinding Resolution 28-2024  Nays: (0)  REPORTS RECEIVED BY COUNCIL  February 2024 Report submitted by Easton Fire Department. Council members the recruits will be sworn in June 6, 2024  Mayor Panto stated we have six (6) recruits currently in the academy graduating in. June. Mayor Panto advised  REPORTS OF COMMITTEES  Mr. Brown, Chairperson of the Finance Committee: No Report submitted  Mr. Pintabone, Chairperson of Economic Development Committee: Mr. Pintabone has three items this  evening.  1-Finalizing the agreement for the Urban Forestry Grant with an anticipated start date of April 1, 2024. 2-DCED is working with the Chamber to plan for al broker's open house in early to mid-June for: real 3- We continue our engagement with the marketing team at Lafayette College to enhance community  estate agencies and agents to tour our high-profile long-standing vacant spaces.  engagement.  Mrs. Rose, Chairperson of Planning and Code: Reminded everyone the Zoning Board will meet March 18,  6pm in Council Chambers. The agenda is available on the city website.    Mrs. Rose also would like to update everyone on1 the LVI Lady Boss Summit held last week in honor of International Women's Day. She was honored to be on1 the planning committee and give the Welcome Address. Mrs. Rose was also honored toj present an award to a remarkable woman from Easton, Mariska Titus Michener. Marishka embodies the spirit ofe entrepreneurship, and community engagement. Mrs. Michener is also a former business owner and investor. The Marishka Titus Michener Award will be given annually to al local woman Dr. Ruggles, Chairperson of Public Safety: The Public Safety Committee met last evening, where our new community advocate came in and shared her work SO far. She started June 2023, and has over 300 cases she addressed. This has been a huge benefit to the city of] Easton. She is doing a tremendous job. Mr. Edinger, Chairperson of Public Works: Mr. Edinger states he does not have ai report; however, he has Mrs. Sultana, Chairperson of Administration: Mrs. Sultana wants to echo want Dr. Ruggles stated about the Community Advocate position. She further states "we just saw another reason to have Community Advocate, for family in crisis instead ofhandcuffing the family". Mrs. Sultana also wants to congratulate Mrs. Michener. Mrs. Sultana does not have an official report. But wants to read something in honor of Breonna Taylor, marking four years since her killing at thel hands ofc officers as a reminder ofi injustice in our society. Mrs. Sultana read a statement from her computer for the next few minutes and was interrupted by Mr. Pintabone. Mr. Pintabone asked the mayor what this reciting of a statement about Breonna Taylor as to do with city business. Mrs. Sultana stated she can say anything she wants. Mr. Pintabone stated her comments should come at the end of the meeting during Public Comment on any subject. Mr. Pintabone told Mrs. Sultana she needs to stick to the "script" and further states "there's an agenda for a reason". Mrs. Sultana asked Mayor Panto ifs she is allowed to finish. Mayor Panto replied there is a real reason to have the code of conduct and the way a meeting is conducted, this would come at the end oft the meeting, stating Mr. Pintabone is correct. Mayor Panto further states this is not the time for her to politicize her ideologies. It's time to give a report of what she has done on Mrs. Sultana believes everybody spoke out oft the scope of their committees. All Council members present strongly disagreed and told her they gave information on their committees. Mrs. Sultana agreed to stop reading Mayor Panto, Report oft the Mayor: Mayor Panto spoke about outdoor dining which is on tonight'sa agenda. As stated, we are tough on crime. Our bearcat vehicle protects our police and residents. It's used to deflect Wei received our $187,000 bandshell which will be used at festivals and concerts this spring and summer. Reminder that street sweeping begins April 1. We will give warnings for two weeks and then start ticketing. Also to remind the council ofNational League of Cities (NLC) which was highly informative. Mayor stated there are no emails regarding this, council members must go to NLC.org and for Pennsylvania Municipal League, PML.org to geti information. NLC summit is November 13-16 and PML: is October 10-13. Anyone  within our local business community.  three (3) Resolutions he will introduce.  her committee.  and will begin reading again at the end oft the meeting.  bullets being shot at police.  interested should speak to Ms. Roscioli.  Mr. Campos, Report of City Administrator: No Report  Mr. Scheer, City Solicitor: Mr. Scheer states he did not have ai report, however he stated he wanted to make an observation. Our responsibility is to make sure the police conduct themselves properly. Mr. Scheer commended the police department. When he watched the video presented earlier to make sure there was not anything shown that should not be shown. Mr. Scheer's impression is this should be shown to other police departments to learn    how to conduct themselves. Other police departments should be looking at a video like this. Iti is clear our police  department is doing what they need to be doing and acting as we would want them to act.  There was a briefdiscussion ofincidents from the past. Jeremy Clark, Assistant Solicitor: No Report  CORRESPONDENCE  No correspondence  UNFINISHED BUSINESS  No unfinished business  NEW BUSINESS  The next item on the agenda was a Resolution amending applications fees for 2024 Outdoor Dining.  The following Resolution was introduced by Mr. Pintabone  42-2024  The above Resolution was approved on a motion ofl Mr. Pintabone, seconded by Mr. Edinger by the following  vote:  Yeas: Mayor Panto, Mr. Pintabone, Mrs.. Rose, Dr. Ruggles, Mrs. Sultana, Mr. Edinger  Nays: None (0)  ###  The next item on the agenda was a Resolution closing out the DCNR Grant for four (4) West Ward Parks  The following Resolution was introduced by Mr. Edinger  43-2024  The above Resolution was approved on a motion by Mr. Pintabone, seconded by Mrs. Rose by the following  vote:  Yeas: Mr. Pintabone, Mrs. Rose, Dr. Ruggles, Mrs. Sultana, Mr. Edinger, Mayor Panto  Nays: None (0)  ###  The next item on the agenda was a Resolution approving aj proposal from Chester Valley Engineers ($31,180)  The following Resolution was introduced by Mr. Edinger  44-2024  The above Resolution was approved on a motion by Mr. Pintabone, seconded by Mr. Edinger by the following  vote:    Yeas: Mrs. Rose, Dr. Ruggles, Mrs. Sultana, Mr. Edinger, Mayor Panto, Mr. Pintabone  Nays: None (0)  ###  The final Resolution on the agenda approves a change to the Salary and Wage to fund the position of Assistant  City Engineer with Engineer in Training (EIT) at specified salary. The following Resolution was introduced by Mr. Edinger  Before the vote was taken Mayor Panto invited Mr. Hopkins to speak about the Assistant City Engineer position. Mr. Hopkins stated wel have an opportunity to recruit af former intern who is graduating from Ohio State, excellent worker. The citye engineer and another staff member will be retiring at the end of this year. Int the past it's been difficult recruiting, it's competitive. Not al large pull of candidates. We cant train him and be ready when we have Dr. Ruggles stated the process is like that of outside companies, they hire students then once graduate and come Hopkins. The market is extremely competitive. This candidate likes everything we are doingi int the city.  two retirements. back toi that company.  45-2024  The above Resolution was approved on a motion by Mr. Edinger, seconded by Mr. Pintabone by the following  vote:  Yeas: Mrs. Sultana, Mr. Edinger, Mayor Panto, Mr. Pintabone, Mrs. Rose, Dr. Ruggles  Nays: None (0).  Mr. Pintabone brought a discussion regarding the two dozen subcontractors for the Fourth Street Garage not  being paid by the General Contractor. There was a brief discussion on the matter.  Mr. Clark discussed the situation with Mr. Pintabone and Council.  PUBLIC COMMENT - On any matter  Art Ravitz, 144 Church St.: Buildings, Reading, Pa.  Mr. Ravitz asked who the General Contractor is for the Fourth Street Garage. Mr. Clark replied, Perrotta Mr. Ravitz asked if they are in bankruptcy court, and do we know how much they owe? Mayor Panto stated he  gets phone calls all the time from sub-contractors. We do not have an exact figure.  Louisa Durkin, 205 Paxinosa Rd. East:  Read a statement from the Easton Environmental Advisory Council. Jason Hoy, Kabinett Wine Bar, 125 Northampton St:  Mr. Hoy spoke about the 2024 Outdoor Dining costs for restaurants to participate. Asked the council how they came up with the amount now being charged. Mayor Panto replied, when we initially started this during Covid, we didn'tcharge restaurants any fees. We wanted to help them get through Covid. The following year, we charged    anominal feel again tol help keep the restaurants open. The city did not recoup their costs. Now that the downtown restaurant scene is vibrant, we are charging 50% of what it costs the city to set up the outdoor dining.  There was a brief discussion on this matter. Art Ravitz, 144 Church St  Wanted to talk about Mrs. Sultana's comments about Breonna Taylor. He stated we are all conscious and aware, most people are aware ofit. He wants to point out that one cop is to blame, not all cops. Secondly, today is also the anniversary ofthei rape and murder ofKitty Genovese. There were noj police officers around, but her neighbors all heard her being raped and did nothing. It'si important we don'tblamei the cops, especially when ours are doing  sO good.  Mrs. Sultana again read her statement about Breonna Taylor. She stated she is going to start over. Mr. Pintabone wants to praise our Police Department in treating everyone fairly.  Mayor Panto stated the incident with Breonna Taylor happened in Tennessee, not here. Mayor told her when she speaks of these racial issues, it's not anything happening here in Easton. As Mayor Panto was speaking, Mrs. Sultana interrupted him stating she wanted to honor the memory of Breonna Taylor. Mayor Panto stated again Mrs. Sultana interrupted him and she is out of order. Mayor Panto told Mrs. Sultana, this is the City of Easton, and she needs to put her attention on matters involving the city. She was elected to handle issues having to do with the city. Mrs. Sultana made a motion to adjourn Mr. Pintabone advised her there is no second. The outdoor dining parklets have been great but feel the increase in fees is ridiculous.  Tony Klapatch, 1974 Mercer Way, Pamela Panto 158 Charles St.  Mrs. Panto states she served and represented the city for 20 years on zoning, past and present, six years on city council with two different Mayors and our police are doing a fantastic job. After seeing the video tonight, Mrs. Sultana should be more concerned with the violence in her home and doesn'tt think children have any right to be sitting with Mrs. Sultana at the dais. Very offended this has been let happen, their father is here, and they should  be with him. Ifthere is no babysitter, you should stay home.  ADJOURNMENT  With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:07pm on aj motion of Mr. Pintabone and Mr. Edinger  by the following vote: Nays: None (0)  Yeas: Mrs. Rose, Dr. Ruggles, Mrs. Sultana, Mayor Panto, Mr. Edinger, Mr. Pintabone    The reality is that what each of us does and says publicly reflects on our council, our city  government, and our community.  As a result of the wrongful public allegations leveled at me, our Police Chief and the men and women of our police department, by a sitting member of this Council If feel compelled to respond to the unfounded allegations leveled at us. Anyone that is not  recognized by the Chair will not be allowed to speak.  First let me say that I have the utmost respect for our law enforcement officers. Easton and its renaissance is a direct result of police actiOon to make our city safer. These are the men and women that dedicate their lives to protecting us. As Isaid in my State of  the City, we are tough on crime, and we are a safer city for it.  That is why we, as members of Council, need at all times to be respectful and professional in the way we present ourselves, our views and our ideas about our police officers. We have worked hard to change the perception of our police department and I see that slipping away by these unfounded statements. As elected officials, we took an oath to protect the health, safety and welfare of all of our residents. Our public expressions should be considerate of all people and everyone in our community. Yes we  will disagree but we should never be disagreeable.  Ibelieve that public speech and actions reflect a person's character, the character of our council and the character of our city. Therefore, we should strive to be respectful, honest and sensitive to differing opinions. I feel negative comments about our employees, other public officials, and residents in general are inappropriate. At the last Council meeting I was yelled at and called a liar. To try and correct that, Ia am going to hold a strategy session for the council in the next few weeks and I will present an amendment to our Code of Conduct. We will also discuss our Tuesday night committee meetings.  Ms. Sultana your actions concerning your arrest and the negative comments directed at city officials needs a response. First and foremost? Our police department makes the  arrest and hands it off to your department.  Frankly I am too busy to get involved in the drama that surrounds Ms. Sultana. AndI don't get involved in police matters and pay for my parking tickets. Just a few years    ago I had a very good friend and supporter who had his two-year-old pickup truck seized  for lack of payment for parking tickets.  Iwill now give the floor to Councilman Pintabone.    Karen Roscioli From: Sent: To: Subject:  Frank Pintabone Thursday, March 21, 2024 1:33 PM Karen Roscioli Minutes  Here is what Kenny sent me to read  Unfortunately, Iwill not be able to attend council meeting tonight March 13,2024. However, as a council- member /Vice Mayorlwould like to have this investigated under Act2 22t this way, the public will have a full understanding, and also that their council has done it's due diligence, byi investigated this matter  about the city administration andit it's police chief  Thanks In Advance Councitmember, Ken Brown Get Outlook for ios  1    OLI  CITY OF EASTON POLICE DEPARTMENT  CHIEF CARLJ.SCAIZO 48 NORTH 4TH STREET EASTON, PA 18042 FAX # 610250-3931 PHONE # 610250-6630  Good Evening, everyone. Tonight, I stand before you in an unprecedented situation, compelled by the council to address deeply troubling allegations that have been levied against my department, my  officers, and myself.  Ihave been a law enforcement officer for 30 years and have been the chiefofthis department for 12. This is the first time Ih have been forced to respond to an allegation ofracism, political corruption, and socio-economic bias by a person ofleadership and trust in our community. Councilwoman Sultana made several accusations against this department following her arrest for domestic violence in July of2023 by the Baston Police Department and following her acceptance into a first-time offenders program, ARD.I want to recite the statements made by Councilwoman Sultana disparaging my officers and my department sO there is no dispute about why I am here  and what I am trying to defend. READ STATEMENTS  These statements and allegations are not factual. Ik know it, the officers  on scene that day know it, Ms. Sultana's family knows it, and most  importantly, Councilwoman Sultana, you know it.  As some of you are also aware, Mr. Baratta, the Northampton County District Attorney, also made comments in open court referencing the political twisting of this case. I am uncertain what he meant by those statements or what he meant by political avenues could raise their head, butI can assure you, as today's presentation will clearly show, that there was absolutely no political influence in the actions of this department when handling this call. As Mr. Baratta later stated, ifl he believed there was political bias in this case, he would have dismissed the charges, which obviously was not done and, in my opinion, speaks clearly to his beliefin the integrity of this department and, more specifically, the handling ofthis  case.    CITY OF EASTON POLICE DEPARTMENT  CHIEF CARLJ.SCAIZO 48 NORTH 4THSTREET EASTON, PA 18042 FAX # 610250-3931 PHONE # 610.250-6630  Itisv with a heavy heart that I address these allegations tonight. However,lunequivocaly affirm to this council, the city administration, and every community member that our police department is unwavering in its commitment to fairness, respect, and the dignified treatment ofall individuals. I want to stress that racial, political, and socioeconomic biases have no place in our law enforcement and did not influence the handling of  this specific incident.  As our Mission Statement declares, the officers oft the Easton Police Department and I, as Chief, are deeply dedicated to our duty of protecting and serving the citizens of Easton with fidelity, honor, and in a manner that is fair, unbiased, judicious and respectful oft the dignity of all individuals. Our Mission Statement further guides us to follow The Golden Rule' and want members ofour family to be treated regardless of their perceived status' - whether they are a member of our community who is homeless or someone whom society may consider necessary or privileged, such as a City  treat all people the way we would  Councilwoman.  As Chief, and on behalfo oft this Department, I want to underscore our unwavering commitment to doing things the right way. We have dedicated the past 15 years to ensuring our officers act with utmost professionalism, our policies and practices are of the highest quality, and our reputation for excellence is maintained and earned every single day. In her statements, Councilwoman Sultana has called for police reform, transparency, and accountability. We have answered that call, obtaining and maintaining the highest levels of accreditation from the Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association, and have been accredited for over 15 years.  That is why I was SO upset, offended, and angry when I heard and read the comments and postings by Councilwoman Sultana that allege that her somehow unfair, unwarranted, or based on something other than our officers  arrest was  answering a 911 call from a young man seeking help.    POLICE  CITY OF EASTON POLICE DEPARTMENT  CHIEF CARL J. SCALZO 48 NORTH 4TH STREET EASTON, PA 18042 FAX# # 610 250-3931 PHONE # 610 250-6630  Speaking oftransparency, our officers are equipped with body-worn cameras that record the actions and words of all persons involved in a given police response. Our Department and officers welcome this tool as an  unbiased witness of what transpired on every call.  Several members oft the City Council, specifically Councilman Ken Brown, Councilman Frank Pittebone, and Councilman Jim Edinger have requested and obtained a copy ofthe department's body-worn camera footage from that afternoon. They have directed me to play this video as part ofmy presentation here this evening. This video shall be played following my statements here tonight to be transparent with the community we serve and to ensure that this department has not violated the oath we all swore to uphold. Ibelieve that the endeavor of playing this video, as unfortunate as it is, is necessary to regain the trust ofthe citizens ofthis community, which is essential to the success of any police agency. Isay this because I genuinely believe there are real-life consequences to statements made by Council Woman Sultana. My officers will have to deal with those foreseeable future and attempt to convince the public that those statements  such as those  negative consequences for the  are invalid.  To put the video ofCouncilwoman Sultana's arrest in context, I will recount the timeline ofevents that pre-date and post-date the video:  OnJ July 31st, 2023, the 911 Dispatch Center received a call reporting a domestic disturbance at Councilwoman Sultana's Our officers responded, as we are required to do by law for any domestic violence calls, regardless ofwho is involved.  home.    CITY OF EASTON POLICE DEPARIMENT  CHIEF CARLJ.SCALZO 48 NORTH 4TH STREET EASTON, PA 18042 FAX # 610: 250-3931 PHONE # 6102 250-6630  Asr reflected on the video, we received a credible complaint by one ofCouncilwoman Sultana's sons that his mother had assaulted him, and officers observed physical injuries consistent with an assault, including scratches to his face and dried blood As reflected on the video, Councilwoman Sultana's son noted that he had been assaulted by his mother on other occasions and As reflected on the video, other children stated that they, too, had been assaulted by their mother on other occasions. Our officers obtained a written statement from Councilwoman Sultana's son confirming everything he had told us on the BWC Our officers took pictures of the young man's injuries. Thei reason for the written statement, pictures, and video - all of which we try to do in every case - is that, sadly, many victims ofdomestic incidents later want to recant what they said or wish not to have their loved one arrested or prosecuted and in doing sO remain in a potentially dangerous and abusive As we are mandated by law to act upon reports of domestic violence, especially when officers observe physical injuries, we had no option but to take Councilwoman Sultana into custody  tol his nose.  suffered prior injuries.  Video.  relationship.  and remove her from the home.  Read the N.C. Domestic Violence Protocol    POLICI  CITY OF EASTON POLICE DEPARTMENT  CHIEF CARLJ.SCALZO 48 NORTH 4HSTREET EASTON, PA 18042 FAX# 610250-3931 PHONE: # 610250-6630  Given the situation's sensitivity, I was notified and responded to the scene to ensure that our officers handled this call with the utmost respect for Councilwoman Sultana. As seen in the video, Iexplained to my officers that I was there to oversee and accept responsibility for the mandatory arrest and handle any pushback Given the situation's sensitivity- not for any other reason- Councilwoman Sultana was walked to the police cruiser without handcuffs a courtesy not usually afforded to arrested Based on the evidence collected on the scene, Ms. Sultana was processed and brought before a judge to be arraigned. Following her release from our custody, the Easton Police Department had no contact with the DistrictAttorney and was not involved in the case other than to indicate that we would not oppose allowing for an ARD disposition in February of2024. Having been on the scene at the time oft the incident and after watching the Body-Worn Camera video, it is my opinion-however, each person viewing the video can decide for themselves that our officers acted professionally, compassionately, and humanely towards not only Councilwoman Sultana's son, her other children and family In short, the comments ofCouncilwoman Sultana that the response and actions of our officers to a cry for help by her son were in some way improper or unprofessional, or that the charges were somehow politically motivated, is not only flatly wrong and in stark contrast to what is seen on the BWC video, iti is irresponsible, defamatory and offensive. These are challenging times for law enforcement in our society. This profession and the officers who choose to serve across this country are constantly under attack, yet these men and women continuously answer the call when community members need help.  from Ms. Sultana due to that arrest.  persons.  members, but to Councilwoman Sultana herself.    CITY OF EASTON POLICE DEPARTMENT 0L  CHIEF CARLJ.SCALZO 48 NORTH 4"STREET EASTON, PA 18042 FAX #6 610:250-3931 PHONE# # 610250-6630  They don'task for praise, and They don'task for appreciation, but I do not believe it fair to accuse these officers ofracial bias or political bias when it simply did not occur. Itis well past time that government leaders, enforcement leaders begin to stand up for these officers and not only defend their actions when they do things the right way but praise them for their willingness to stand in defense ofall those who need help. Ican assure you our officers answered the call for help that afternoon and they and this department deserve much better than what they got in this instance.  political leaders, and even law  Chief Carl J. Scalzo Chief of Police  Easton Police Department    Dear Members of the Easton City Council and City Staff,  We, the Easton Environmental Advisory Council, urge the Easton City Council and staff to carefully consider the significant benefits of hiring individuals with expertise in enforcing municipal codes and ordinances related to environmental protection and sustainability. While our city boasts a rich natural landscape and a relevant set of environmental codes, the demands for oversight and enforcement extend far beyond what our current staffing can adequately address. Iti is our understanding that the cityi is currently or soon will be hiring new code  enforcement agents.  Presently, inquiries and requests related to environmental regulations are primarily directed to Rob Christopher, our city Conservation Manager. However, Mr. Christopher's capacity to handle the volume of queries and enforcement actions is limited. By bolstering the Codes Department with personnel experienced in enforcing environmental regulations, we can alleviate the strain on existing resources and ensure that inquiries are promptly yaddressed, and Key attributes to seek in candidates include experience in conducting inspections and investigations to ensure compliance with environmental regulations, focusing on areas: such as air quality, water quality, waste management, plant identification, and land use. Additionally, codes officers with environmental experience could provide guidance and support to city staff, businesses, and residents on environmental compliance requirements and best practices. They could also play an integral role in reviewing development projects and permit applications to assess environmental impacts and ensure compliance with city codes and regulations. Having knowledgeable staff within the Codes Department can lead to more proactive measures to mitigate environmental risks and promote sustainable development practices. Byi integrating environmental considerations into planning and permitting processes, we can enhance resilience to climate change, minimize pollution, and safeguard this community's natural capital. Moreover, investing inj personnel with enforcement experience in environmental matters can enhance the city's reputation as a leader in environmental stewardship. Wer recognize the clear financial benefits associated with building this type of expertise into the department. Proactive enforcement can also reduce the need for costly remediation efforts in the future. Maintaining intact natural capital within our community will contribute to higher property values. With this expertise integrated into city management we can mitigate natural disasters such as serious erosion, flooding, and landslides. Overall, we expect this will contribute to a sustained, higher quality of life. Thank you very much for your consideration. Should you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to reach  enforcement actions are effectively carried out.  out to the Easton Environmental Advisory Council.  Sincerely, Louisa Durkin Associate Member  Easton Environmental Advisory Council    Today marks exactly four years after Breonna Taylor's killing at the hands of a Kentucky police officer and Her tragic death, marked by the unwarranted use off force and the disregard for human life, serves as a Breonna, a 26-year-old woman with dreams and aspirations, was unjustly taken away from us. The manner in which she was shot and killed in her own home by those sworn to protect and serve is a grave violation of But Breonna's story is not just about one individual. It is a reflection oft the broader issues of racial inequality and injustice that continue to plague our communities. Iti is a call to action to dismantle the structures that We cannot turn al blind eye to the injustices that led to Breonna's death. We must demand accountability, transparency, and meaningful change in our law enforcement systems. We must stand together in solidarity Breonna Taylor's name should not be forgotten. Her memory should fuel our determination to fight for justice, equality, and the end of systemic racism. Let us honor her legacy by continuing to speak out, to  stands as a stark reminder oft the deep-rooted injustices that persist in our society.  painful symbol of systemic racism and police brutality.  trust and al betrayal ofj justice.  perpetuate discrimination and violence against Black and brown people.  against police violence and advocate for a more just and equitable society for all.  protest, and to work towards a world where every life is valued and protected.  Our thoughts are with Breonna's family and all those profoundly impacted by her untimely passing. In memory of her, we renew our commitment to advocating for the eradication of police violence, particularly against Black and brown communities who disproportionately bear the brunt of such injustices in our nation.  Ineed to run some errands. To ensure la arrive alive, Iwon't take public transit  (Oscar Grant).  Iremoved all air fresheners from the vehicle and double-checked my  registration status (Daunte Wright),  and ensured my license plates were visible (Lt. Caron Nazario). Iwill be careful to follow all traffic rules (Philando Castille),  signal every turn (Sandra Bland),  keep the radio volume low (Jordan Davis),  and won't stop at a fast food chain for a meal (Rayshard Brooks).    I'm too afraid to pray (Rev. Clementa C. Pickney) so Ijust hope the car won't break down (Corey Jones).  When you run errands today, be sure not to dance (Elijah McClain),  stop to play in a park (Tamir Rice),  patronize the local convenience store for snacks (Trayvon Martin),  or walk around the neighborhood (Mike Brown).  Once home, don'tstand in your backyard (Stephon Clark),  eat ice cream on the couch (Botham Jean), or play any video games (Atatiana  Jefferson).  Iguess I'II watch a movie around 7:30pm, Iwon't leave the house to go to  Walmart (John Crawford) or to the gym (Tshyrand Oates) or on a jog (Ahmaud Arbery).  lwon'teven walk to see the birds (Christian Cooper).  I'II just sit and remember what a blessing it is to breathe (George Floyd)  andIdefinitely won't go to sleep (Breonna Taylor).