Several people have expressed interest to address a crossing guard shortage in Lehighton.

Borough police Chief Troy Abelovsky said at Monday’s borough council meeting that three applications have been received since the position was advertised following last month’s meeting.

However, the consensus of council was to wait until next month’s meeting before taking any action.

“We are down a couple,” Abelovsky said.

Borough Manager Dane DeWire noted that the borough has yet to meet with Lehighton Area School District.

“I think a phone call to the school district might be beneficial,” Councilwoman Autumn Abelovsky suggested.

DeWire said at last month’s meeting that the borough currently employs 10 crossing guards, but is looking for more.

He said they are part-time employees hired through the borough police department at the rate of $10 an hour.

DeWire said the borough has $65,000 in this year’s budget for crossing guard compensation.

He said the borough pays 40% of their compensation, while the Lehighton Area School District picks up the other 60 %.

Councilman Ryan Saunders said at that time that he likes the idea of filling shifts.

Autumn Abelovsky said there are several locations that lack coverage.

The borough and the school district have tried to get on the same page concerning crossing guard plans.

In July 2022, representatives from each entity discussed how to address personnel shortages that have been leaving several key intersections unmanned.

Saunders noted at that time that over the course of one school year, they had 135 crossing guards shifts go uncovered.