Palmerton Borough took on another member for its Civil Service Commission, but a resignation has opened up yet another seat at the table.

Mayor Christopher Olivia swore in Donald F. Heiney during Thursday night’s council meeting. The commission meets about once a year to discuss issues pertaining to police personnel matters.

“I’ve always wanted to get into politics since I’ve retired. It’s something to help out the community,” Heiney said.

Just after Heiney was sworn in, borough Manager Rodger Danielson said that he had received a letter of resignation from Civil Service Commission member Phil Binder.

“I think we ought to accept that resignation with regret,” Danielson said. “He served for many years there.”

The board accepted the resignation, with noted regret.

Binder’s resignation opens up another available seat, and interested applicants can apply for the position with the Civil Service Commission at the borough office.

In other business

Danielson reported that the borough’s paving projects are nearing completion for the year, with some limited oil and chip work yet to be done.

“The pavement work that we have discussed is ongoing, with Harvard Avenue, Alleys E and F, Lehigh Avenue, Marshall Lane, South Seventh, Sixth, Fifth, Third and Second having all been completed,” he said. “They’ve moved into the west end now, and actually I think tomorrow is scheduled for the paving of Edgemont. That will probably wrap up the paving for this year. We do yet have some oil and chip we’ll be doing on some of the hills and secondary alleys, so there will still be active work.”

Spot leaf collection has begun for the Public Works Commission, a month ahead of last year’s start date. Danielson said that a crew has intermittently been sent out to collect due to the hefty amount of leaves that have already come down this fall.

Danielson also reported that the borough has hired Phillip Bell to help trap skunks in the town due to several reports from residents. Bell has been certified as a trapper with the Pennsylvania Game Commission, and he will be working with the borough for the next several months.

The board approved a minor subdivision review for Beltzville Enterprises at 242-244 Lehigh Ave. in Palmerton.

The board approved the sale of a 1981 GMC mini-pumper to Mike Veneziano of Bellefonte for a bid of $2,601. The bid opening was held on Monday at the council chambers.

Clark Ritter was approved for a position as a code agent for 20 to 25 hours per week at the rate of $12.50 per hour.

Rick Trescott was approved for a leaf collection position at the rate of $9.50 per hour.

The board approved the addition of two chain saws to the list of items for sale at the upcoming Council of Governments auction.