City of Wilkes-Barre Council - Work Session 8.11.26

The Wilkes-Barre City Council held a work session on August 14, 2026, where several procurement and budget-related matters were discussed. Key topics included the approval of an insurance package with Risk Strategies covering various city liabilities for a premium of $176,130, noting a modest premium increase and reduced deductibles. The council also authorized entering into a lead hazard control grant agreement with the Pennsylvania Department of Health for $425,000 to address lead removal in homes. Additionally, the council considered the subdivision and sale of city property to River's Edgeberry LLC for $40,000, intended to support affordable housing and manufacturing operations, with discussions on placing covenants and timelines to ensure development commitments. Other discussions involved updates on new police vehicle acquisitions, online testing for police civil service, and neighborhood infrastructure concerns, but no further procurement actions were taken.