Easton News

Easton officials announced Tuesday the near-completion of the 2021 budget, including an analysis of debt restructuring which has helped strengthen the city's fund balance.

Easton mayoral candidates Peter Melan and Sal Panto Jr. will partake in an audience-driven debate at Lafayette College Monday, May 8.

A historic Easton property that once housed a church, a dry cleaner and a noted artist is up for lease. The three-floor mixed-use building would be a perfect place for new business, the owner says.

Fat Jacks' has welcomed customers along Freemansburg Avenue for 32 years. Now owner Susan Kerbaugh says it's time for someone else to take the reins. The building and its liquor license went on the market this week.

The walkable tour features gallery stops and showcases paintings, handmade jewelry and sculptures by Lehigh Valley artists.

City officials in Easton are warning that a large bear was spotted Thursday on College Hill near Parker and Shawnee avenues.

The Lehigh Valley Youth Climate Summit is slated for Saturday at the Nurture Nature Center. The event is free, with a lecture open to the general public.

Easton Mayor Sal Panto Jr. has announced a set of pop-up festivals and other outdoor events scheduled throughout the city during spring and summer. The free events will feature free food, drinks and entertainment for all.

The Bethlehem Township zoning board voted 4-0, opposing the applicants' zoning appeal. Reasons cited included the lack of public benefit and resident concerns issued at previous hearings.

Following the introduction of a resolution to recognize Muslim holidays, the Easton City Council resolved to expand that recognition to include religious holidays from all faiths in a separate calendar.

Councilman Frank Pintabone reintroduced his marijuana decriminalization ordinance at Easton City Council on Wednesday, aiming to turn possession into a summary charge. A vote on the matter is expected in two weeks.

Start Making Sense, a Talking Heads tribute band with singer Jon Braun assuming the role of frontman David Byrne, will perform the first day of Garlic Fest, set for Oct. 4-5 in Downtown Easton.

Palmer Township police officer John Smoke faces up to five years in prison. Authorities accused him of sending the photo to a 16-year-old while he was assigned to Easton Area High School as a resource officer.

Incumbent Easton City Council members Taiba Sultana and Roger Ruggles lost in the Democratic primary, according to unofficial election returns. Susan Hartranft-Bittinger defeated Sultana and Frank Graziano outpaced Ruggles.

Wilson Area School Board unanimously approved its $49 million budget for the 2025-26 school year on Monday night. Included is a 3.5% tax increase.

Police have charged an Easton man in connection with a recent chop shop investigation. Angel Vidal faces several felony and misdemeanor charges as he awaits a preliminary hearing in Northampton County Prison.

Tuesday, May 20, is Primary Election Day in Pennsylvania. Several high-profile local races are on the ballot in Lehigh and Northampton counties. Check out our procrastinator's guide and Q&A.

One week after damage to underground cables caused widespread power outages on Easton's South Side, parts of the city were in the dark once again Monday.

Drivers who have been ticketed for school bus camera violations say the process to contest them needs to change. PennDOT said thousands of citations across seven Lehigh Valley school districts are still awaiting hearings.

In Tuesday's Democratic primary election, two challengers are on the ballot to face off against incumbent council members Roger Ruggles and Taiba Sultana.

Easton City Council passed a resolution declaring itself an Affirming City, offering protection for trans individuals and other LGBTQ+ community members.

Developers behind the new Easton Area School District high school presented some refinements and updates on the project plans to the school board at their Tuesday meeting.