Scranton · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Scranton public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Data Center Zoning Regulations and Nuclear Energy Concerns
Two zoning ordinance amendments and outside consultant correspondence are on the agenda about how Scranton should regulate data centers. This could shape where large data facilities can build and what conditions they face.
E-Bikes and Motorized Devices Rules
Two proposed ordinances would update city code to define and regulate e-bikes, e-scooters, and other motorized devices — including where they can operate and rules for city parks.
Bridge Rehabilitation Grant Applications
The city plans to apply for up to $2.79 million and $3 million in state Multimodal Transportation Fund grants to rehabilitate the South Washington Street bridge over Roaring Brook and the East Elm Street bridge at Hertz Court.
2027 Capital Budget and Spending Plan
The city's capital budget and reserve fund spending plan for fiscal year 2027 is up for adoption consideration by the Finance Committee. It determines which infrastructure projects get funded next year.
Regulation of Kratom Sale and Possession
An old-business ordinance would make it illegal to sell or give kratom and its potent derivatives like 7-OH to anyone under 18, with penalties for violations.
Levee System Operations and Maintenance Manuals
Three resolutions would formally adopt operations and maintenance manuals for the Albright, South Side, and Plot Section levee systems — key flood protection infrastructure.
Euclid Avenue One-Way Traffic Designation
The ordinance making Euclid Avenue one-way westbound (to fix a dangerous sight-distance problem at North Main Avenue) was tabled pending a public hearing held this evening and comes back for a vote next week.
Data Center Zoning and Potential Small Nuclear Reactors
Lawmakers are considering amendments to the city's zoning ordinance to specifically regulate data centers and related operations. These rules will shape where and how large-scale technology infrastructure can be built in Scranton.
Hickory Street property acquisition
The city is moving to buy a Hickory Street parcel from the Redevelopment Authority for $1; the ordinance was introduced and goes to committee.
Illegal parking near Scranton High School
A resident says parents parking illegally on Seventh Avenue and Providence Road at pickup time are forcing drivers into oncoming traffic. He wants parking enforcement or police to act.
Downtown stop-sign trial and traffic changes
Members questioned the downtown stop-sign conversion: the test is running while streets are still one-way and construction is ongoing, the ordinance listed 7-10 intersections but the city announced 13, and business owners say they were blindsided about lost parking during the retail season. A caucus with Reilly Associates is set for November.
Code Enforcement and Blight Mitigation
Mark Margavitch told Council a court ruled the city's code citation against him was 'manifestly deficient' and reversed his conviction, but he still carries a criminal record. He asked Council to direct the law department to support expungement; Sean McAndrew asked the solicitor to look into the request.
Townhouse Development at Farr St and N Sumner Ave
Residents pushed back against a proposal to build 14 townhouses, citing worries about cramped parking, stormwater runoff, and dangerous traffic patterns.
Multi-Family Conversion on Luzerne St
Sean Bingham is proposing to convert a three-family home into a four-family home at 1319-21 Luzerne St, impacting housing density.
Commercial Parking Reduction and Tent Structure at Jackson St
La Revolucion Mexicana LLC is asking for a parking reduction and permission to keep an outdoor tent structure at 2225 Jackson St.
Short-Term Rental Proposal on Monroe Ave
The board evaluated a request for a variance or special exception to operate a short-term rental property on Monroe Avenue.
Drive-Thru Coffee Shop and Parking Reduction at SouthSide Shopping Center
Brew Team Group wants to build a drive-thru coffee shop in the SouthSide Shopping Center parking lot while cutting 50 required parking spaces.
Home-Based Nail Salon on Washburn St
Mariola Lantigon is requesting a variance to run an appointment-only nail salon out of a home at 1826 Washburn St.
HUD 2026 Annual Action Plan Approval
Council approved the HUD 2026 Annual Action Plan, unlocking federal funds for community development, housing, and emergency grant programs.
Blighted Properties and Code Enforcement Concerns
Residents highlighted long-abandoned storage pods sitting on public streets and overgrown blighted properties, urging stricter enforcement and ordinance updates.
Municipal Budget and Revenue Projections
Council President Schuster pointed out that the city is running a $1.2 million deficit in the first quarter, breaking several years of positive budget surpluses.
2025 Financial Audit and Pension Health Improvements
The city's 2025 financial single audit was completed and submitted by Clifton Larson Allen, LLP, showing improvements in pension funding health and financial reporting timeliness.