Page 11 - Daryl Hendricks News Today : Breaking News, Live Updates & Top Stories | Vimarsana

Learn how the 2021 municipal primary races are shaping up across the Lehigh Valley.

On its second attempt, Allentown City Council adopted a resolution Wednesday recommending the county administration, district attorney’s office and courts system limit future incarcerations and to release as many non-violent offenders as possible to house arrest. The resolution also suggests the county should ensure jail staff, inmates and visitors have clean personal protective equipment.

Allentown’s new finance director warned of challenging times ahead addressing a structural budget deficit while maintaining municipal services. But Seth O’Neill voiced confidence in his staff’s ability to advise Mayor Ray O’Connell or his potential successor on the best path forward.

Allentown officials are largely in agreement: Recruiting social workers to help city police respond to 911 calls involving mental health crises, substance abuse and homelessness issues is, conceptually, a wise move. But some are reluctant to bring in a consultant to offer some pointers until they ensure Lehigh County officials and one of the regional health networks are on board — and prepared to provide funding. Others fear mental health professionals will expropriate, rather than supplement, police resources.

Allentown City Council on Wednesday voted 6-0 to elect Julio Guridy its president — but only after a failed behind-the-scenes effort to defeat his nomination. He assumes the one-year term while seeking the Democratic nomination for city mayor.