Slatington Fire Chief Ronald Hausman told borough council that the department has stabilized a month after being appointed chief.

Hausman, who served as fire chief for Slatington in the 1990s, was appointed by the Slatington Borough Council to replace former Chief Austin Berger in August.

At the time, Capt. Justin Frable had resigned in support of Berger, and it was reported that other volunteers might resign as well.

“There were no volunteer firefighters lost as a result of what has happened,” Hausman said. “That’s because we’re a tight-knit group. The brotherhood and sisterhood, we stick together.”

Hausman told council that he met with Frable, and Frable is back to working with the department.

“He’s been coming out on calls and everything,” Hausman said. “So that’s good news.”

Hausman also told council that he has spoken with Berger, and said he calls him when he needs clarification on some issues.

“We had a very good discussion on two occasions,” Hausman said.

Hausman added that Berger is now working as assistant fire marshal; Dean Heffelfinger is the borough’s fire marshal.

“I spoke with Dean, and he thought it was a good idea,” Hausman said.

Hausman also reported that he has met with fire chiefs from Walnutport, Palmerton, Lehigh Township, Emerald and Slatedale. Those departments provide mutual aid to Slatington.

Slatington is doing joint training with Slatedale and Emerald. Slatington has also started with the Lehigh Valley Rescue Group. Hausman reported that there are 16 people in the Firefighter One certification program.

“That’s outstanding for one department,” Hausman said. “They are planning for Firefighter Two certification next year, and our mutual aid companies would like to join in.”

Hausman also reported that the fire company volunteers are reaching out to the community. Volunteers from the fire company will be at the Slatington Elementary School from 6:30-8 p.m. Sept. 15 serving ice cream to the students and having their fire trucks there for children to tour.

“Every resident of this borough should be proud of the firemen that represent this borough because each and every one of them are going above and beyond to provide service to this borough,” Hausman said. “So I really wanted you to know is that we’re here doing our part. But now you need to help us. The volunteers are doing what they can, but we can only do so much with raising funds.”

Hausman pointed out several pieces of fire equipment more than 25 years old that needs to be replaced.

“So, again, I’m only asking for help from you. We’re doing our part, you need to do your part.”