No one is applying for the posted full-time police officer position, according to Lansford Councilman John Turcmanovich.

Because the police department is understaffed, current officers are working overtime to cover shifts, “and it’s killing the budget,” Turcmanovich said.

The council voted to reach out to police departments in neighboring Summit Hill and Nesquehoning to discuss establishing shared services. This would allow officers from those areas to police Lansford.

They also voted to reach out to the Pennsylvania State Police to establish emergency support in the event there are not enough officers on duty.

Council approved the hire of one part-time candidate dependent upon a successful background check and polygraph.

Mayor Michele Bartek indicated that the new police car, a Charger, should arrive within the next two weeks.

Council is considering a smoking ban on all borough property including the park, pool and buildings. There was a short discussion about enforcement, signs and fines. Further discussion and voting will take place at the September meeting.

The council approved the process to submit an LSA grant to improve the park. Improvements on the streetlights will begin in about six months now that a bid has been awarded.