Nesquehoning has reached an agreement with its police chief.

On Wednesday, borough council approved a five-year contract retroactive to Jan. 1, 2018, with Chief Sean Smith. Councilman George Sabol abstained from the vote because Smith is his son-in-law. Councilman David DeMelfi was absent.

The contract, which is in effect until Dec. 31, 2022, covers everything including salary, pension, vacation time, training and uniform allowance and more.

Council President David Hawk said that the chief, who has been out on medical leave but is hopeful to be returning later this month, will be paid $75,000 in 2019 with $2,000 increases in each year after that under the new terms of the contract. The annual salary is based on 90-hour pay periods.

In prior contracts, Smith has been paid hourly, but council noted he was changed to salary.

Smith has served as borough police chief since 2001.

In other police matters, Mayor Sam Kitchko asked that any residents who have outside surveillance cameras should let the police know.

In the event an incident happens in the borough, surveillance footage is very helpful to police and knowing where cameras are located may be crucial in solving a case. Footage would only be requested if something happens in the area of the camera.

For example, a recent rash of vehicle break-ins in the Hauto Valley Estates was caught on camera and used by police in their investigation.

If you have a surveillance camera and would like to let police know, please call the department at 570-669-9111.

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