Lehighton Borough Council is discussing livestream meetings.

Borough Manager Dane DeWire told council that Councilwoman Dr. Jordyn Miller suggested the idea to increase the accessibility of council’s meetings, especially for those who cannot attend in person.

Councilman Steve Hawk said that across other municipalities, it’s become a fairly common thing to livestream meetings, and didn’t see why the borough couldn’t look to do the same.

Miller explained she believes livestreaming would be advantageous for several reasons.

DeWire said he will run the matter by borough solicitor Jim Nanovic.

Neighboring Franklin Township, Lehighton Area School Board, Northern Lehigh School District and Jim Thorpe Area School District are among municipalities who livestream their meetings.

Also on Monday, borough council on a 6-0 vote agreed to replace its aged phone system.

Borough council accepted the borough phone system contract from Ironton Global.

That came after DeWire said it will cost $5,700 for 25 to 30 machines, along with a recurring $425 monthly fee.

Under the terms of the three-year contract, DeWire noted the borough’s monthly rate will increase from $190 to $425.

DeWire noted that twice in the last six weeks, the borough Water Authority’s phone system had been hacked.

“The new machines will replace the aged system in the administration building, Public Works shop, L & P building, recreation center, and the pool,” DeWire said. ”The police department already has the upgrade installed.”