# October 28th, 2026, DCED and Human Services Budget Meeting

Northampton County’s DCED and Human Services budget meeting, held October 28, 2026 (the meeting metadata is dated October 29), reviewed the proposed 2027 budget and heard public comment opposing closure of Gracedale. The Lehigh Valley Planning Commission described its county planning services and transportation funding: $31.3 million was invested through the Lehigh Valley Transportation Study in federal fiscal year 2026, and county contributions help secure additional federal and state funds. The presentation also covered an $800,000 Safe Streets for All grant, a $400,000 passenger-rail study, and planning work on major transportation and development projects. Budget discussion included EPA brownfields funding administered through grants and loans, gaming-funded economic development contributions, and previously completed COVID-response projects, including medical vans. No contract award or procurement-related vote was recorded.

Human Services review focused on contracted provider services, staffing, and Gracedale costs. Staff said subcontracted services account for about 83% of the Human Services budget and described outcome monitoring for providers; several requests for additional contract and performance details were left for follow-up. At Gracedale, officials discussed agency nursing costs, the IGT transfer and potential changes to Medicaid reimbursement, and the possibility of selling 88 licensed beds. Officials also said they were seeking a new nursing-home administrator and expected an RFP related to planning a new, more secure facility; no award or related vote occurred. The meeting ended without recorded budget approvals or spending motions.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Healthcare, Construction & Infrastructure
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure, Grants & Funding
**Published:** October 29, 2026

### Sources
- [October 28th, 2026, DCED and Human Services Budget Meeting](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2DTHUxMYlkM) - Northampton County (Live Meetings)