In the years since her soul mate’s passing, Reta Stein stayed true to her belief.

Stein became Slatington’s tax collector in April 2014, succeeding her husband, William Stein, who had just passed away.

William had been serving as the borough’s tax collector up until his untimely passing.

“Every tax collector is supposed to have a deputy, and I was my husband’s deputy,” Reta said. “I went to the borough hall; they asked me if I’d be interested.”

Stein explained what it was like to keep the family tradition going.

“A friend talked him (William) into it,” she said. “I just felt I wanted to fulfill his obligation; I felt it was my civic duty.”

Now, five years after she took the helm, Reta had to resign due to health reasons.

“I’m sorry that I have to leave the office,” she said. “I wish I didn’t have to leave the office.”

Last month, borough council approved Stein’s resignation as tax collector, effective Dec. 31.

Stein didn’t hesitate to say what she’s enjoyed most about her job.

“Working with the people, meeting with different people, helping them out of situations,” Stein said. “I will miss the people, the companionship for the people that came in when I have office hours.”

Stein, who has resided in the borough since 1967, said the busiest time of year is usually from April (borough bills), through the end of August, then again in December.

While there have been many instances that have stuck out, she said none more so than a woman who came to Stein’s house at 10:30 in the evening in her house coat to pay her taxes.

On a more serious note, Stein said the job is extremely important.

“There’s a lot more to the job than what people realize,” she said. “There’s tax certifications for mortgage companies, settlement companies, reports that are done at the end of the month.”

Stein didn’t hesitate when discussing what she believes is the most frustrating aspect of the job.

“A thorn in the side is per capita taxes due to people who live in town that don’t realize they need a moving permit,” she said.

Council said that candidates who would like to fill the position at that time must be a resident of the borough, and must also pass a certification test.

Stein said whoever her replacement is must have some computer knowledge, work well with people, have patience with people and be willing to help people.

“The deputy should be someone that you work closely with that knows what you’re doing to teach them,” she said. “I’d be willing to work with them to help them get set up; they can contact me.”