Frequently Asked Questions

• Who are the City Council members?
• How can I contact/communicate with my council person?
• What are the districts?
• Who is the City Clerk and what is her function?
• What are the various council meetings? Where and when are they held?
• How can I obtain a copy of an Ordinance or the Frequently Used Ordinance Book?
• Can I address Council at their meetings?
• Where can I find information about the City's Boards, Authorities and Commissions?
• How can I apply to be on the City's Boards, Authorities and Commissions?
• What is the Code of Ethics? How can I obtain a copy of the Code of Ethics?
• How can I make a complaint to the Board of Ethics?
• What is the Home Rule Charter? How can I obtain a copy of the Charter?
• What is the Charter Board? How can I make a complaint to the Charter Board?
• What is the difference between Commission Government and Home Rule Government?
• What records are stored in the City Clerk’s Office?
• What records are considered “public” by Pennsylvania’s Right to Know Act?
• What is Citizen Initiative and Referendum?
• Can the Council Office help me with a complaint about City Services?

Who are the City Council members?

The 2012-2014 Council is composed of the following:

• President of Council Francis Acosta
• City Council District 1 Randy Corcoran
• City Council District 2 Marcia Goodman-Hinnershitz
• City Council District 3 Dennis M. Sterner
• City Council District 4 Stratton P. Marmarou
• City Council District 5 Donna Reed
• City Council District 6 Jeffrey S. Waltman

How can I contact/communicate with my council person?

You can contact any member of Council through the Council Office via:

• Phone 610 655 6204 or E-mail council@readingpa.org
• Post Office Mail 815 Washington Street, Reading PA 19601
• Voicing concern to the Council staff office, located on the second floor in City Hall

You can also speak with City Council by calling in to the In Your District program, airing at 8 p.m. every week on the BCTV MAC Channel 99.

What are the districts?

Under the Home Rule Charter, the City of Reading is divided into six districts, with each district electing one Council member. District-elected Council members are to represent the voice of their constituents and are to act as a body to make decisions in the best interest of the entire City. Boundaries mapping out the six districts of the City can be found on the City website. The President of Council is elected at-large. The President of Council is the presiding officer of Council and has the same voting powers as the other six Council members. The President interacts with the Mayor and other governmental entities and represents the voice of Council.

Who is the City Clerk and what is her function?

Linda A. Kelleher is the City Clerk for the City of Reading and has been serving City Council since she was first appointed in January 1996. The City Clerk acts as the Secretary to the Council, or Secretary to the Board of Directors. The City Clerk is the Director of the Legislative Branch, responsible for managing the operations of City Council by providing leadership and administrative support, implementing Council policies and providing quality services to the people of Reading.The City Clerk maintains accurate legislative records and performs other services to the body of Council such as public relations, drafting and reviewing ordinances, legal research and acting as a liaison with the City Administration and other entities. The City Clerk assists Council in areas such as setting agendas, developing a Council Action Plan and coordinating appointments for the City's Boards, Authorities and Commissions.

What are the various council meetings? Where and when are they held?

Council meetings are held on Monday evenings. The meeting schedule is listed at the bottom of each regular meeting agenda.

• First Monday – Economic Development Committee, Standards of Living Committee, and Nominations and Appointments Committee – Council Office
• Second Monday 5 p.m. – Committee of the Whole – Council Office
• Second Monday 7 p.m. – Regular Council Meeting – Council Chambers
• Third Monday - Finance, Audit, and Budget Committee and Strategic Planning Committee – Council Office
• Third Monday 7 p.m. – Work Session – Penn Room
• Fourth Monday 5 p.m. Committee of the Whole – Council Office
• Fourth Monday 7 p.m. Regular Council Meeting

Additional meetings are added and advertised as needed through newsprint or City website announcement (readingpa.gov).

How can I obtain a copy of an Ordinance or the Frequently Used Ordinance Book?

Our City laws are located at the “Codified Ordinance” link on our web site. If you cannot print the law you are interested in, please call the Council Office at 610 655 6204 to request a copy. The Frequently Used Ordinance Book is published by Council Staff and contains a variety of quality of life laws. This book is updated by Council Staff on a regular basis. If you would like the latest draft, please call the Council Office at 610 655 6204.

Can I address Council at their meetings?

You can address the body of Council at their Regular Business Meetings held on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month and at Public Hearings held to address specific topics. Council does not allow public comment at Committee Meetings, Committee of the Whole Sessions or Work Sessions.

Citizens wishing to address the Council at its regular meetings may do so by giving notice verbally or in writing by providing their name, address and the subject matter to be discussed to the City Clerk before 5 PM the day of the meeting. Citizens can also register by calling 610-655-6204 or by entering their information in this form. Citizens speaking on agenda issues may speak for up to five minutes at the beginning of the meeting. Those speaking on general matters may speak for up to three minutes after the Council action on the legislative matter is complete. When the City Clerk signals that your time is complete, we ask that you quickly conclude your remarks and be seated.

Where can I find information about the City's Boards, Authorities and Commissions?

For information on the City’s Boards, Authorities and Commissions click on the “Authorities or  Boards & Commissions” menu item on the website main menu  or by contacting the Council Office at 610 655 6204 or via e-mail, council@readingpa.org.

How can I apply to be on the City's Boards, Authorities and Commissions?

If you would like to serve on one of the City’s Boards, Authorities and Commissions click here, print an application, fill it out and mail it to the Council Office – 815 Washington Street, Reading PA 19601. If you cannot print a copy, call the Council Office at 610 655 6204 to request one and the Council staff will be happy to assist you.

What is the Code of Ethics? How can I obtain a copy of the Code of Ethics?

The proper operation of democratic government requires that public officials and employees be independent, impartial and responsible to the people; that government decisions and policy be made in the proper channels of governmental structure; that public office is not to be used for personal gain; and that the public have confidence in the integrity of its government.

In recognition of these goals, there is an established Code of Ethics to be administered by the Board of Ethics. The purpose of this Code is to establish ethical standards of conduct for all officials and employees of the City of Reading, its agencies and authorities, whether elected or appointed, paid or unpaid, by providing guidelines to clarify actions or inactions which are incompatible with the best interests of the City and by directing disclosure of private, financial or other interests in matters affecting the City.

The provisions and purpose of this Code and such rules, regulations, opinions and disciplinary decisions as may be promulgated by the Board Pursuant hereto, and under provisions of Article XII of the Charter, are hereby declared to be in the best interest of the City.

The Code of Ethics is located on the City website. If you would like a bound copy, please contact the Council Office by calling 610 655 6204 or via e-mail, council@readingpa.org.

How can I make a complaint to the Board of Ethics?

Any person may file a complaint about alleged ethics violations of the Reading Code of Ethics or the City Charter. A complaint form may be requested through the Board of Ethics liaison, Michelle Katzenmoyer, by calling 610 655 6205, upon request from the Council staff office, or by clicking here. In addition, the Board may initiate proceedings by its own action.

A person signing a complaint shall:

• Reasonably believe in the existence of facts upon which the claim is based.
• Reasonably believe that the complaint may be valid under the ethics provisions of the Code of Ethics and the City Charter.No official or employee may be penalized for a good faith filing of a complaint with the Ethics Board, or providing information or testifying in any Board proceeding. An employee may not be discharged, suffer change in his/her official rank, grade or compensation, be denied a promotion or be threatened as a result of any of the above.

All Board proceedings and records relating to an investigation are confidential until a final determination is made by the Board, except as may be required by due process. The final order is a public record. All other file material must remain confidential. The Board, however, may release the identity of a complainant if it has determined that there has been a wrongful use of the Code of Ethics.

What is the Home Rule Charter? How can I obtain a copy of the Charter?

The Home Rule Charter acts as the “Constitution” for the City of Reading. It sets the operational rules for our government. The City Administrative Code, found in the Codified Ordinances, is used to further define Charter provisions. Copies of the Home Rule Charter may be acquired through publication provision of the City Council staff office and it is also available on our website.

What is the Charter Board? How can I make a complaint to the Charter Board?

The Charter Board, created under the 1st Amendment to the Home Rule Charter, hears and decides all complaints alleging violations of the Charter and Administrative Code. This Board is also responsible for providing orientation for all elected officials.

Charter complaint forms can be obtained on the City’s web site, by phone or e-mailing the Council Office at 610 655 6204 or council@readingpa.org.

What is the difference between Commission Government and Home Rule Government?

The State provides for three forms of government in Pennsylvania:

• Commission – established under the Third Class City Code
• Optional Third Class Charter Law – established under the Third Class City Code in 1957
• Home Rule Charter Optional – established by the State General Assembly in 1972, apart from the Third Class City Code

The Commission Form of government is made up by a Mayor and City Councilors all elected at-large. The Mayor presides over Council meetings but has no additional power. Al these elected officls perform executive duties and direct the city departments. Under the Commission form there is no single or administrative officer to oversee the operations of the City.

Home Rule Charter Optional provided for 2 structures:

• Strong Mayor / Part-time Council
• Council / Manager

Reading voters approved the Home Rule Charter Optional form of government with a Strong Mayor / Part-time Council in the November 1993 General Election. The executive, administrative and law enforcement powers of the City are vested in the Mayor. The Mayor shall control and be accountable for the executive branch of City government.

City Council is the legislative body having all powers of the City not otherwise provided for in this Charter, exercised in a manner to be determined by Council. Council shall provide for the exercise and performance of any such other powers and duties in a manner consistent with the terms of this Charter. All powers of the City shall be exercised as provided by this Charter, or if the Charter makes no provision, as provided by ordinances or resolutions of the City Council.

The Charter defines the City’s Departments and sets out requirements for professional department directors, who report to the City’s Managing Director, appointed by the Mayor and approved by Council.

What records are stored in the City Clerk’s Office?

The City Clerk's Office houses a variety of current and old city records.

The City of Reading Codified Ordinances has many features in addition to the current city laws. This book provides references to applicable state and federal legislation. The Codified Ordinance Book also includes a key that provides the disposition of all city streets, improvements, vacations, etc. The key can also provide the researcher with the history and disposition of city ordinances. The Codified Ordinances have been available on-line since 1999, with updates done annually. The Codified Ordinances can also be found in the Main Branch of the Reading Public Library and the Berks County Law Library.

The office also holds the Journals of Council that include the ordinances and resolutions adopted dating back to 1854. Other old records include departmental reports, solicitor's opinions, Board of Health records, tax assessment records, Water Bureau reports, etc. Unfortunately, record retention and archiving diminished between the 1960's and 1995. In 1996 staff in the City Council/City Clerk's Office restored the practice of records retention and archiving, and the staff is currently working to digitize current and old city records so they are more accessible to the public.

What records are considered “public” by Pennsylvania’s Right to Know Act?

These are public records that must be disclosed under Pennsylvania's Right to Know Act:

• Accounts, vouchers or contracts dealing with the receipt or disbursement of funds or the acquisition, use or disposal of services or supplies, materials, equipment or other property (includes canceled checks and cell phone bills paid by the county)
• Minutes, orders or decisions by an agency fixing the personal or property rights, privileges, immunities, duties or obligations of any person or group of persons
• Reports, communications or other papers pertaining to safety and health in industrial plants
• Records of a conviction for a criminal act In addition, Pennsylvania courts have ruled that the following records are subject to inspection and copying under the Right to Know Act:
• Code of Ethics and manuals fixing duties and obligations regarding the treatment of state inmates
• Penn DOT contract to perform emissions inspection
• Department of Welfare: Nursing home settlement and appeal activity reports • Real estate appraisals performed in connection with a city's effort to acquire property (held to fix personal or property rights of the owners of the property affected)
• A report prepared by a hospital accreditation commission for welfare department
• A township's and municipality's canceled checks
• Arrest warrant affidavits, unless court order says otherwise
• Examination papers and scores of applicants for civil service jobs
• Records of retired state employees
• Attendance record cards of professional employees of school districts
• The building record portion of property records (containing construction specifications) maintained by county boards for the assessment and revision of taxes
• Accident reports and certain studies conducted by the Commonwealth concerning the accidents
• Completed reports prepared by the Department of Labor and Industry on safety and health in industrial plants
• The review and refund docket of the Board of Finance and Revenue
• The list of names and addresses of kindergarten children in a school district
• Police payroll records
• Lists of people taking CPA exams
• Addresses to which a school district forwarded the scholastic records of former pupils
• Lists of delinquent taxpayers
• Subscriber lists for magazines published by the Commonwealth
• Crime, death and accident reports filed with the police department
• Names and addresses of public high school graduating classes
• Evaluations of state psychiatric institutions compiled by a commission which prescribes standards for hospitals participating in certain federally funded programs
• Statistical data from the Pennsylvania Department of Education on the racial and ethnic composition, by school district, of programs for exceptional children
• Settlement agreement in police brutality lawsuit
• A list of unclaimed checks held by the state Treasury Department
• Escheat records of abandoned and unclaimed property held by the Department of Revenue
• Hearing transcripts of testimony and evidence from an electric utility base rate case before the PUC

Although individual agencies still may agree to release the following information, Pennsylvania courts have ruled that these records are NOT subject to inspection or copying under the Right to Know Act:

• A Pennsylvania Insurance Department investigative file on a licensee
• Psychological, staffing and job evaluations made to complete a state prisoner's suit against Department of Corrections officials in regards to parole consideration
• Criminal pre-sentence reports and related psychiatric and psychological reports
• Notice of compensation records from Bureau of Workers Compensation
• Correspondence and memoranda by Department of General Services concerning request for proposals to lease office space to government agency
• Information relating to assignment of assistant district attorneys to specific cases
• The contents of a contractual settlement between a school board and a teacher
• Field investigation notes taken by city planning department staff to report to a city council member
• Departmental budget reports required by the budget secretary (held to be a statement of facts and events, not an "account" consisting of debits and credits)
• Names, addresses and amounts received by welfare recipients
• Contents of a teacher's personnel file maintained by the school district
• Financial disclosure statements voluntarily submitted in response to executive orders requesting such statements from members of the governor’s cabinet and members of certain agencies
• Financial information regarding the operation of state-related universities
• Physical fitness reports and promotional evaluation reports of police departments
• The name of a person who accused a police officer of receiving stolen property as well as the police department's files on the investigation of the complaint
• "Raw data" compiled by the Pennsylvania Department of Health for a study on the connection between the Three Mile Island accident and birth defects
• Information from tax returns filed with a municipality and results of tax audits
• Plans for special education programs submitted to, but not acted on, by the Pennsylvania Department of Education
• Request for the statements and notes of testimony of alleged co-defendants, as well as requests for all relevant newspaper clippings and articles dealing with a criminal case
• Job applications that were not reviewed
• Police investigative reports
• Audio tape recordings of 911 telephone calls
• Urinalysis reports from halfway houses
• Legal opinions from solicitors and attorneys that are not essential components of agency decisions • Inmates' medical and mental health records

What is Citizen Initiative and Referendum?

Citizen Initiative and Referendum are two ways that citizens not holding political office may present legislation for the City. The two opportunities are as follows:

Initiative: The qualified voters of the City shall have the power to propose ordinances to the Council. If the Council fails to adopt such an ordinance, the initiative process would place the proposed ordinance before the voters as a referendum at an election, providing the City voters with the opportunity to adopt or reject the ordinance at a City election.

Referendum: The qualified voters of the City shall have the power to require reconsideration by the Council of any adopted ordinance. If the Council fails to repeal an ordinance so reconsidered, the Referendum process may be commenced giving the qualified voters of the City the opportunity to approve or reject said ordinance at a City election.

For more detail, please contact the Council Office by calling 610 655 6204 or e-mail to council@readingpa.org.

Can the Council Office help me with a complaint about City Services?

The Council Office can take a concern or complaint about City Services, and work with the appropriate City department(s) to efficiently rectify the problem. In addition, Council members note problematic trends in order to improve upon or implement any additional services that benefit the City. If you have a concern that the City Clerk or City Council can assist with, contact the Council staff office at 610 655 6204, via e-mail council@readingpa.org or by writing to 815 Washington Street Reading, PA 19601.

• How do I open a business in the City of Reading?
• What does Reading have to offer my business and why should I move or expand my business to Reading?
• What are the incentives?
• How do I apply for a small business loan?
• What is going on in Reading in terms of economic development?
• Where can I find a site for my business?
• How/where do I get zoning information?
• How do I apply for a business license?
• How do I purchase an Our City Reading (OCR)/Boscov House?
• Does this office provide assistance to private landlords?
• How do I purchase a home if I am a low to moderate income family?
• How do I get a home repair loan?
• How many historic districts are located within the City of Reading?
• Are all of the City’s historic districts regulated?
• What is the difference between a National Register Historic District and a locally regulated district?
• What are the rules and regulations for properties located within a historic district?
• What is a Certificate of Appropriateness and how do I obtain one?
• When does the HARB hold its meetings?
• Do I need to attend the HARB meeting?
• How long does the HARB approval process take?

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How do I open a business in the City of Reading?

Your first step to opening your own business is to visit or call the zoning office to make an appointment to meeting with one of our Zoning Administrators. Detailed information on the steps to start a business and a variety of resources can be also be found on our website.

What does Reading have to offer my business and why should I move or expand my business to Reading?

The advantages to moving your business to Reading are clear; there are 100 million people who have easy access to your business. The City is only 55 miles from Philadelphia, 125 miles from New York and 145 miles from Washington D.C. The City has a skilled and diverse work force. You’ll find that doing business in the City will be most cost efficient as we have many sites and buildings to match your needs. For additional information, contact the Reading Redevelopment Authority at 610-655-6025 or visit their website.

What are the incentives?

To view the incentives that are offered in the City of Reading, click here.

How do I apply for a small business loan?

Information on how to apply for a small business loan can be found on our Business Financing Programs webpage.

What is going on in Reading in terms of economic development?

Information on Economic Development in the Reading area can be found on the Greater Reading Economic Partnership website.

Where can I find a site for my business?

Please click here.

How/where do I get zoning information?

Anyone who is interested in zoning information is encouraged to visit our office in City Hall, room 3-03.

How do I apply for a business license?

You must visit the Citizens Service Center in City Hall, room 1-27 to apply for you new business license.

How do I purchase an Our City Reading (OCR)/Boscov House?

You may contact an OCR representative by calling 610-370-3990 and someone will be able to assist you with obtaining an application.

Does this office provide assistance to private landlords?

At this time, the City does not have any programs that can be offered to private landlords.

How do I purchase a home if I am a low to moderate income family?

You can contact the following organizations for assistance.

Neighborhood Housing Services (NHS) at 610-372-8433

Habitat For Humanity at 610-373-3439

How do I get a home repair loan?

Call Neighborhood Housing Services (NHS) at 610-372-8433

How many historic districts are located within the City of Reading?

There five historic districts in the City of Reading: Callowhill, Prince, Centre Park, Penn’s Common and the Queen Anne District.

Are all of the City’s historic districts regulated?

No. Only the Callowhill, Prince, Centre Park and Penn’s Common Historic Districts are locally regulated by the Reading Board of Historical Architectural Review (HARB). The Queen Anne Historic District is Reading’s only National Register District and changes to structures located within its boundaries are not subject to review by the HARB.

What is the difference between a National Register Historic District and a locally regulated district?

A National Register Historic District is a district that has been designated by the National Park Service as worthy of preservation and therefore has been placed in the National Register of Historic Places, a federal list of historically significant resources. National Register districts may or may not be locally regulated but are afforded some protection by municipality oversight when federal funds are used in a project that may have a negative effect on historic resources. A locally regulated historic district is a district established by a municipality that may be listed in or is eligible to the National Register of Historic Places. A locally regulated district is governed and protected by the Historic District Ordinance which establishes a review board (HARB) to review changes to buildings. Listing in the National Register of Historic Places does not necessarily protect buildings within a historic district from being altered or demolished whereas the historical integrity of structures located within a local historic district are provided protection through the Historic District Ordinance

What are the rules and regulations for properties located within a historic district?

If a property is located within one of Reading’s four local historic districts, all proposed exterior changes that can be seen from a public right of way require review by the HARB. The Preservation Officer has been authorized to approve certain in kind building improvements and painting of exterior surfaces. Certain proposed improvements may require review by City Council as per the Historic District Ordinance. The first step in the HARB process is to complete a Certificate of Appropriateness application.

What is a Certificate of Appropriateness and how do I obtain one?

A Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) is required for all new construction and exterior alterations to structures in a historic district that can be seen from a public right of way, including those visible from public streets and alleys. The application must be completed to include all specifications for proposed exterior work (submit paint color samples, material samples, and detailed drawings illustrating finished dimensions for signs, new construction and alterations). Apply to the Historic Preservation Officer for a COA prior to obtaining any required building permits. A COA application is available from the City’s Historic Preservation Office, City Hall, 815 Washington Street, Room 3-03, Reading, PA, 19601and on the website.

When does the HARB hold its meetings?

The HARB meets every third Tuesday of the month and COA applications must be submitted to the Preservation Officer ten working days before the regularly scheduled meeting. The meetings are open to the public

Do I need to attend the HARB meeting?

Attendance is not mandatory but is strongly recommended. If a property owner or person representing the project is not in attendance and therefore cannot answer pertinent questions, the HARB may table its review until the owner can attend and more information on the project can be obtained.

How long does the HARB approval process take?

The HARB will review a project at the regular monthly meeting and in most cases will issue approval for a COA at the hearing. Once the COA is issued, a building permit may be obtained.

• What is the role of Finance?
• How/where do I pay my fees?
• How do I notify you of a change of location?
• How do I notify you of a change of business location?
• What are the licensing requirements?
• What are the regulatory licenses?
• What is the role of the purchasing division?
• What is the process of supplying goods or services to the City?
• What are the business taxes?

1. If the change of “ownership” is simply a sale of the corporate stock, and there is no change to the business’ Federal ID number, than the City only requires the change to be in writing as detailed in 1) above.
2. If the change of “ownership” involves more than a simple stock transfer, i.e. there is a new Federal ID number assigned to the “new” entity, the old owner(s) must notify the City accordingly [see 1 above] of its “out of business” date and the new owner(s) must follow the procedures to apply for a new Business Privilege License and be treated as a new business.

• Why do your fire trucks use lights and sirens, even in the middle of the night when there is no traffic?
• I saw a City of Reading fire truck at a local grocery store and some of the firefighters were inside shopping for food. Why do firefighters use fire trucks for non-emergency purposes while they are on duty?
• Why does a fire engine come when I only requested an ambulance?
• What is the charge for being transported to the hospital by medic unit?
• Why do you send so many fire vehicles to a fire, especially a small fire?
• Do you have bingo at my fire station?
• How do I arrange to tour a fire station?
• How can I get a copy of a fire incident or medical incident report?
• How can I get a smoke detector from the Fire Department? Will you change the batteries?
• Where can I go to have my child safety seat inspected or installed?

• What is the function of the Human Resources?
• What type of employment opportunities are currently available with the City of Reading?
• How do I apply for employment with the City of Reading?
• How do I contact the Human Resources?

What is the function of the Human Resources?

The Human Resources is responsible for organizing, directing and administering programs involving employment, salary, benefits, labor relations and risk and safety management in compliance with applicable Federal, State, and Local law.

What type of employment opportunities are currently available with the City of Reading?

Please refer to the Employment Opportunities page under Human Resources.

How do I apply for employment with the City of Reading?

Please refer the Employment Opportunities page under Human Resources.

How do I contact the Human Resources?

Monday thru Friday, 8 am to 4 pm:

Human Resources Department
City of Reading
815 Washington Street – Room 2-39
Reading, PA 19601
FAX: 610/372-3722
EMAIL: jobs@readingpa.org

• How do I apply for the Reading Police Department?
• How do I attend the Reading Police Academy?
• How do I know if a vehicle is abandoned?
• What if I think the car is stolen?
• Is the Police Department open on the weekends?
• Where do I get a Protection Order?
• Can I get a Protection Order against my neighbor?
• What is a Disruptive Conduct Report (DCR)?

• How do I report a problem with a traffic light?
• How do I report a problem with a traffic sign?
• Where is there current road work being done so I can avoid delays?
• What do the parks offer?
• Where are the recreation activities located in the city?
• What activities are offered at the recreation centers?
• Where are the public pools?
• What are the youth program activities and services?
• Sanitary and storm sewer team common concerns and questions to reduce problem resolution time.

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How do I report a problem with a traffic light?

Call the Public Works Department at (610) 655-6322

How do I report a problem with a traffic sign?

Call the Public Works Department at (610) 655-6295

Where is there current road work being done so I can avoid delays?

There is currently no paving projects or street/lane closures in effect from the engineering office.

What do the parks offer?

Playground program runs from June through August.  It offers all athletic activities, arts & crafts, music, and drama, field trips special events, athletic leagues, hockey, meal program, environmental program, skateboarding, nature center, swimming, and summer camp.

Where are the recreation activities located in the city?

3rd & spruce recreation Center located on 3rd & Spruce Sts.

11th & Pike recreation Center located on 11th & Pike Sts.

Keffer Park Field House located on 3rd & Exeter Sts.

Baer Park Field House located on W. Douglass & George Sts.

Pendora Park Field House located on 19th & Forrest Sts.

N.E.A.R. Centers- located in all areas of the city in Church basements.

(For additional information on the N.E.A.R. Center program contact Matt Lubas at (610) 655-6233)

What activities are offered at the recreation centers?

Athletic activities, adult volleyball, arts& crafts, music & drama, computer instruction, marbles, homework help, “kid’s café,” tennis instruction, flag football, chess, board games. pool, ping pong, table games, and much more.

(For additional information regarding the Recreation Center contact Matt Lubas at (610) 655-6233.)

(For information regarding the Field Houses contact Heather Boyer at (610) 655-6203)

Where are the public pools?

Schlegel Pool- is located on Lancaster Ave. and Route 10.

(For all information regarding the pool contact Matt Lubas at (610) 655-6233

What are the youth program activities and services?

Activities and services offered at the facilities are mentioned above.
 

Sanitary and storm sewer team common concerns and questions to reduce problem resolution time.

• Can you see the top of the grate?
• Is water able to get in the catch basin grate?
• Is the top grate surface free of debris?
• Is the basin clogged below the street surface?

• Location – street, sidewalk, property, building
• Is the water clear, muddy, or gray? 
• Is anyone trapped or injured?

• What is the location?
• Is it in a traffic lane?
• Can you see the size and shape?  (Almost all City manhole lids are ~2 foot round while gas and water valve covers are smaller.  Most square covers are electric).

• Where were you when noticed odor?
• How long have you noticed it?
• Would you describe the odor?  (Suggest the following to help the caller: sweet, sour, acidic, chemical, rotten egg, septic, raw wastewater)

• What is the nature of the problem?
• Is water coming up at the stacks at the curb in front of the house?
• Is the water entering the house? Where in the house?
• Has a licensed plumber already been contacted?
• What is the property address?

• What and how much was spilled or leaked? (If necessary, contact Fire / HazMat)
• Is it continuing to spill and spread or has it been contained?
• What is the location?
• Is it entering a manhole, catch basin, or stream?

• What is the nature of the problem?
• Where is the water entering the basement? (Pipe, floor drain, cracks in walls)
• Is the water clear, muddy, or gray?
• Is there any odor associated with it?
• Is water continuing to enter the basement?  If so, how much or how fast?
• Has a licensed plumber already been contacted?
• What is the property address?

• How does my trash get picked up?
• Is there a limit for trash pickup and does Allied Waste Industries accept bulk items for trash pickup?
• How does my recycling get picked up?
• What materials are acceptable for recycling?
• Where can I purchase recycling cans?
• What are some items that are NOT recyclable?
• I just moved to Reading, how do I start up service for trash/recycling & billing?
• How do I dispose of tires?
• Where do I recycle other items?

How does my trash get picked up?
Trash hauling services are provided once per week by Allied Waste Industries for residential pickup only with 5 or fewer apartments on a single lot.  All mixed use, commercial, institutional, and residential properties with 7 or more apartments on a single lot are required to have private haulers.  Please click here for more information.

Is there a limit for trash pickup and does Allied Waste Industries accept bulk items for trash pickup?
 Properties under the city’s contract may place the equivalent volume of eight 32-gallon cans each week for pickup.  In addition, one bulk item per week may be left at curbside.

How does my recycling get picked up?
Curbside recycling services for residential customers under the city’s contract are provided directly by city employees.  All mixed use, commercial, institutional, and residential properties with 5 or more apartments on a single lot are required to have private haulers. 

What materials are acceptable for recycling?
You may obtain a list of eligible recycling materials that are acceptable at both the recycling center and curbside by clicking here.

Where can I purchase recycling cans?
 The City’s green 32-gallon recycling cans may be picked up at the Citizen Service Center  at City Hall for no charge. 

What are some items that are NOT recyclable?
 Ceramics, dishes, coffee cups, drinking glasses, window glass, mirrors, light bulbs, Pyrex, Vision Ware, plastic bags, Styrofoam, bound books, paper cartons for milk or juice, tissues, coat hangers, food waste and containers of hazardous or toxic materials.  Please  click here for more information.

I just moved to Reading, how do I start up service for trash/recycling & billing?
 Residents will need to contact the Citizens Service Center at 1-877-727-3234.

How do I dispose of tires?
 To learn more about tire disposal, please click here.

Where do I recycle electronics?
 To learn more about how to dispose of electronic items, please click here.

• What activities can my family and I do in Reading?
• How do I obtain a marriage license?
• What are the senior programs in Reading?  What are my options for senior housing?  How can I help a senior citizen?
• What’s the history of Reading?
• What information do you have about Abandoned Vehicles?
• Abandoned Vehicle on Public Property (Highway, street or alleyway); Police Action
• Private Property: Not Posted with Tow Away Notice
• Private Property: Posted with Tow Away Notice
• Storage of Vehicles on Public Property - Streets, Highways, Alleyways
• Motor Vehicle Nuisance: Codes Department Action 
• What can I do for snow and ice complaints?
• What is the Steet Sweeping schedule?
• What information do you have on Yard Waste/Leaf Collection?

  

• Vehicle code defines “abandoned vehicles” as any of the following: 
• Vehicle is physically inoperable and has remained on a public street, highway or alleyway for more than 48 hours.
• Vehicle does not have all of the following: current registration plates, valid inspection (and emissions if applicable) stickers, ascertainable vehicle identification number and is left on a public street, highway or alleyway for more than 48 hours.
• Vehicle has remained on private property without the consent of the owner or person in control of the property for more than 48 hours.

• Police place "red" courtesy sticker giving vehicle owner seven days to move the vehicle. Vehicle is put on the tow list.
• Certified letter is sent from the Reading Police Traffic Enforcement Office to the registered owner of the vehicle confirming that the owner has seven days to move the vehicle.
• After seven days, vehicle will be towed by a state salvor. 
• Owner may claim the vehicle from the salvor by paying the towing fee, the cost for vehicle storage and a state imposed fee of $50. In addition, the owner will be issued a citation for violation of the Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Code, Section 3712. This violation is $500 plus court costs.
• If the vehicle is moved to another location within the city and is still in violation, it will be towed immediately.

• If vehicle is parked on private property without the owners permission; the following applies:
• Property owner signs release for police to enforce law 
• Police place red sticker on vehicle giving owner 7 days to remove

• After seven days, state salvor tows vehicle; owner is charged for towing, storage, $50 state fee and $500 citation violation.

• It is illegal for any vehicle to be parked on the street in one spot for 72 hours. (Parking space is limited in the city and this is to discourage people from storing vehicles on public property. (City Ordinance 15-408)
• Police may issue red sticker and certified letter giving owner seven days to remove vehicle. 
• After seven days, state salvor tows vehicle; owner is charged for towing, storage, $50 state fee and $500 citation violation.

• Any vehicle is considered a nuisance if it represents a safety hazard (broken windows, no wheels, ripped metal, doors missing, etc) and is parked on public or private property, with or without permission of property owner. 
• Codes department may place a "green" courtesy sticker on vehicle giving vehicle owner 30 days to remove. 
• After 30 days, state salvor tows vehicle; owner is charged for towing, storage, $50 state fee and $500 citation violation.
• Police Department Contacts: 610-655-6407 Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 3:30 pm
• Codes Department Contacts: 610-655-6214 or 610-655- 6215 Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 4:00 pm

• Yard Waste Collection. and Leaf Collection.

1. The City collects loose leaves(not in containers) in the fall from last week in October through the 1 first week of December. Place leaf piles at the curbside during this period. After this period all leaves are to be in BIODEGRADABLE paper leaf bags(available in most stores). NO PLASTIC BAGS.
2. City crews collect loose leaves along a preplanned route. Unfavorable weather conditions or unexpected equipment failures may affect the collection schedule.
3. City crews will only pick up containerized or bagged leaves by appointment. Please call the Department of Public works at (610) 655-6285.

• Tree Trimmings

1. The city will pick up tree trimmings at the curbside by appointment only. The maximum pile for collection is 3’ in diameter and 4” long. Our service is intended to collect material generated from minor tree pruning and maintenance. IF YOU ARE REMOVING A TREE, OR PERFORMING MAJOR RELANDSCAPING, PLEASE MAKE ARRANGEMENTS WITH A CONTRACTOR TO REMOVE THE MATERIAL FOR YOU.

2. Holiday trees may be taken to our drop off site in City Park or Schlegel Park between December 24th. And February 28th.

• Will not pick up the following material

1. Brush and/or branches were not properly separated and/or piled with stub (cut) ends facing the road. 
2. Branches are larger than 3’ diameter or exceed a length of 4”.
3. NO grass clippings, sod, stones, human made materials, lumber, stumps or root balls.
4. No plastic bags