Scranton City Council Caucus 9-8-26

The Scranton City Council caucus meeting held on September 8, 2026, included a public hearing authorizing the mayor and city officials to implement the HUD 2026 annual action plan for community development programs funded by federal grants. The discussion focused heavily on the management and leasing of city-owned commercial properties, including a long-vacant former coliseum space and other leased spaces. The council reviewed ongoing and planned capital improvement projects funded by a $200,000 city allocation and bond proceeds, covering repairs to parking garages, fire systems, HVAC upgrades, and security camera system replacements. Financial performance was reported as positive, with revenues exceeding budget and expenses under budget, partly due to delayed project payments and staffing levels. The council also discussed parking operations, including equipment aging and potential upgrades, grant applications for funding, and issues with parking kiosks and payment systems. Suggestions were made to explore monthly parking options for downtown businesses and to consider reducing parking fees during snow events to facilitate street clearing. No formal votes on procurement were recorded, but several action items related to capital projects, grant applications, and vendor engagement were noted.