City Council Committee of the Whole Meeting 7/27/26 | City of Reading, PA

The City Council Committee of the Whole meeting for the City of Reading, PA, held on July 27, 2026, focused significantly on procurement and contract discussions related to city-owned telecommunications infrastructure. The council reviewed a proposal from Tower Alliance, representing Vertical Bridge, to reduce the monthly rent for a cell tower located in Hamden Park from $2,815.41 to $2,100 to maintain economic sustainability amid industry consolidation and tenant changes. The proposal included a revenue-sharing incentive for additional national tenants and a one-time payment to assist with city budget concerns. Council members discussed the financial implications and potential counteroffers, with administration planning to negotiate terms and present recommendations for council approval. Additionally, Radio Maintenance Incorporated presented on renewing a lease for a city-owned tower on Skyline Drive, emphasizing its critical role in public safety communications. The council also approved a capital fund budget amendment to allocate $512,825 for the acquisition of 2040 Center Avenue, a property near the stadium, to be offset by increased rent payments from the Reading Phillies. Other agenda items included police department promotions and parking ordinance amendments. The meeting concluded with plans for further administrative review and negotiation of the discussed contracts.