Several candidates have emerged to fill the vacant borough manager position in Lehighton.

Eight individuals had applied for the open position as of Friday’s noon deadline, according to borough assistant treasurer/secretary Kim Rubin.

The salary for the position ranges from $90,000 to $110,000 with excellent benefits, with salary based upon qualifications and experience.

Last month, borough council on a 5-1 vote after an executive session fired then borough Manager Steve Travers.

Travers, of Kunkletown, was hired by council on a 5-0 vote in August on a one-year contract at a salary of $105,000. He began his position Aug. 15.

The borough gave no reason for his firing. A Times News right-to-know request for his separation agreement was denied.

Day-to-day matters have been handled in the borough office in the interim.

The borough advertised for a skilled leader to oversee all day-to-day administrative operations, and coordinate with the seven-member borough council, mayor, staff and community.

The borough provides a wide range of public services, including public power. The borough manager administers a total budget of $20.5 million, which includes general fund, $5.2 million; public power, $10 million, and sewer, $3.5 million.

The borough said it’s looking for a skilled, collaborative, and proactive leader. Candidates should have municipal government or executive level, private sector experience; outstanding interpersonal skills; strong financial skills and planning/zoning knowledge; a bachelor’s degree; and strong communication skills.

In June 2022, council unanimously approved hiring former borough Manager Nicole Beckett through Aug. 21, at the rate of $1,200 per month.

In May 2022, council hired Rubin as interim borough manager until a permanent borough manager was chosen.

Rubin began as interim borough manager on May 23 at a rate of $40 an hour.