Slatington Council has hired full-time Police Officer William Borst to be the acting chief of police to replace Chief Greg Winokur, who retired last week.

Borst has been an officer in the borough for 11 years.

Council will re-evaluate Borst in six months. He will be earning $46.67 an hour in the acting chief position.

Winokur said last week, “This will be my last council meeting. I thank everyone for their support. I feel we worked great together for the community.”

Winokur reported that grants for the Tasers and body cameras of $27,911 was received and $49,905 for a traffic camera. Winokur said the building upgrade is in progress.

Council approved a contract with Axon Enterprise Inc. for Slatington Police using COVID funds of $73,210.76 for upgrades of equipment.

Council also approved a pay increase for part-time officer Kyle Bernard, who will be earning $32 an hour.

Firefighters

Slatington Mayor Jeralyn Schoch thanked the hundreds of volunteer firefighters for their hours of service and dedication for the fire on the Blue Mountain and all the residents who donated supplies.

Fire Chief Robert Reph would like to keep the burn ban in effect.

He said, “Our Fire Station was designated as one of the drop-offs for supplies for the fire on the Blue Mountain. We have 800 cases of water. The donation of water and food was so wonderful. Lehigh County is currently working on having the whole county in a burn ban. All of Northampton County is in a burn ban.”

Reph gave Council a 60-day quote for a new Rescue-Engine from KME.

Reph said the new truck replace one that is over 30 years old.

Council discussed and voted 6-1 in favor of the purchase, with Kevin Steckel voting no.

Delivery will be in about three years. The truck will cost $1.2 million. The KME plant is now located in Louisiana.

Borough Solicitor Lisa Young created an ordinance to authorize the fire company to bill for incidents. Council will advertise the ordinance.