Lehighton has begun the process for the eventual leveling of its former sewer plant.

On a 4-3 vote, borough council on Monday agreed to advertise for bids for the demolition of the old sewer plant off Lehigh Drive.

Council members Scott Rehrig, Darryl Arner, Jared McEvoy and council President Grant Hunsicker were in favor, with members Joe Flickinger, Lisa Perry and Helen Torok opposed.

Borough Manager Nicole Beckett said the borough received a letter from the Lehighton Sewer Authority, recommending the demolition of the building.

“Over the years, we’ve had problems with trespassing, vandalism and thefts,” Beckett said.

“Despite our efforts, the fence continues to be cut to enable access.”

“The sewer plant is no longer active, and as it stands, is a liability to the borough.”

Beckett said that in 2012, the sewer authority had recommended the demolition of the building.

This year, she said both the Sewer Authority and the borough’s Public Works Department have recommended demolition.

Previously, the building had been used for storage for the borough’s police department and Public Works Department, Beckett said.

The fire department was also permitted to use the exterior of the buildings and grounds for training purposes.

Flickinger said public safety is a top priority for him, and that the borough should allocate funds so that its emergency services can have the appropriate training resources in place.

Hunsicker asked Flickinger if he wants “to put the taxes up.”

Flickinger responded that the borough needs to have proper facilities within the community.