City Council Committee Meeting 7/7/2026

The City of Easton City Council Committee meeting on July 7, 2026, focused primarily on the proposed pilot program "All Aboard Easton," which aims to provide trolley service connecting the West Ward and Southside neighborhoods to downtown during farmers market hours. The initiative seeks to increase local access, reduce parking demand, and boost economic activity for downtown businesses. The pilot is planned for four weeks starting July 25, with an estimated cost of $750 to $1,000 covering driver wages, fuel, and maintenance, funded initially through the Main Street marketing budget. Sponsorship opportunities, including advertising on the trolley, were discussed as potential future funding sources. Success metrics include rider counts with a target of 150-200 riders per Saturday. Additionally, the meeting covered capital infrastructure needs across the city, including underground utilities, wastewater treatment, stormwater systems, roadways, public buildings, and bridges, highlighting ongoing maintenance and funding challenges. Other procurement-related topics included a rent adjustment for city-owned housing units and a grant application for pedestrian safety improvements funded by automated red light enforcement revenues. The committee also addressed procedural issues regarding denial notifications for handicap parking permits and discussed the logistics and liability considerations for the trolley service, especially concerning minors. No formal votes were recorded during this session, but action items include further evaluation of the pilot program, insurance consultation, and follow-up on rent adjustment details.