Jim Thorpe Police Department is looking to add a new corporal position as part of an initiative to provide additional leadership and oversight, particularly during middle shifts.

Police Chief Joe Schatz said the department currently operates under a rank structure that includes the mayor, chief of police, and a sergeant.

“The proposed corporal position would serve as a mid-level supervisory role, ensuring a consistent chain of command during shifts where higher-ranking officers may not be present,” Schatz said of the change. “The borough budget for this year includes funding for the new position. A job description has already been drafted and was presented for council approval.”

The role would primarily cover the 5 p.m. to 3 a.m. shift, complementing existing leadership during other hours. The corporal could also be reassigned to different shifts as needed based on directives from borough leadership.

The process of selecting a corporal, Schatz said, falls under civil service guidelines. “The procedure involves a written test, which candidates must pass to advance to the oral board examination,” he added.

The oral board comprises three civil service commission officers who will evaluate the candidates. A physical examination is also required.

To be eligible, candidates must have served with the borough police department for at least five years. Four members currently meet these qualifications: Detective Lee Marzen, Officer Kyle Kohler, Officer Kyle Oliver, and Officer John Pruitte.

Schatz recommended that the borough cover the cost of testing

“For entry-level police officers,” he said, “applicants bear the cost of the test, but for a promotional test, the borough should absorb the expense.”

The estimated cost per candidate is $110, which includes a $100 test fee and a $10 study guide.

Training

Borough council was also briefed last week on ongoing training initiatives for police personnel. Schatz, along with Sergeant Michelangelo Bokeko and Officer Kohler, will be attending an events management and security training program in March in Monroe County.

“With the growing number of large-scale events in the borough, it is crucial that our officers are well-equipped to handle crowd management and public safety concerns,” Schatz said.

The officers are also scheduled for a two-day follow-up course in June in Luzerne County, which will focus on multi-agency coordination.

Borough officers are also undergoing training in the Incident Command System. Schatz, Bokeko and Kohler have already completed their full ICS certifications and plan to enroll in an ICS-400 course later this year.

“This advanced course will provide the necessary skills to manage large-scale incidents that may require extended response coordination,” Schatz said.