The new head of Lehighton’s police department has been greeted with open arms.

Borough police Chief Joseph Sparich said at Monday’s borough council meeting that he recently completed his first week on the job.

Sparich thanked everyone, and noted that “everybody’s been very welcoming.”

He also acknowledged officer Gabe Szozda for his work as officer in charge.

“He did a phenomenal job keeping things afloat,” Sparich said.

Sparich said he believes the department is in a good place.

“I see good things for the department going forward,” he said. “We have a great department, and I would like to move things forward.”

Earlier this month, council on a 4-0 vote at a special meeting hired three full-time officers.

Jason Pryce, Alex Hummel and Ivan Centeno all were hired at the entry-level full-time officer starting salary of $55,645.

After four years of service, their salary would be $74,193.

Both Pryce and Hummel had recently been hired as part-time officers with the borough police department.

In July, council on a 3-2 vote hired Sparich as police chief. Council President Grant Hunsicker, and council members Lisa Perry and Donnie Rehrig were in favor. Ryan Saunders and Councilman Darryl Arner were opposed.

Councilwoman Autumn Abelovsky abstained from the vote because her husband, Troy, was one of the candidates who applied for the position. Councilman Joe Flickinger was absent.

Sparich, of Weatherly, was hired at a salary of $95,000.

He most recently served as lieutenant for the Pennsylvania State Police Hazleton barracks.

Council at a special meeting in April approved the memorandum of understanding with former police Chief Brian Biechy.

Biechy’s last day was April 26.