Coaldale Borough employees will receive extra pay for working during the coronavirus pandemic.

Borough council met Tuesday night. Members of the public were not allowed to attend due to coronavirus. Council members said they will offer the public free copies of the minutes from the meeting.

During the meeting, members voted to approve a temporary $3-per-hour pay increase for all essential employees who have worked during the past month.

“I know some people are paying a lot extra, we can’t do it, we’re a small borough. But to offer them a little something,” said council President Angela Krapf.

Workers will receive a separate check with the extra pay for hours they worked between March 13 and April 4, Krapf said. Council will decide later whether to extend the period.

“We’re going to give it in a separate check so they realize it’s not permanent,” Krapf said.

Police, road crew members and office staff will receive the extra pay.

In light of the coronavirus, council is also extending the discount period for garbage bills for one month.

Council also voted Tuesday night to increase the base pay for secretary Suzanne Whildin to $14 from $12.27. Whildin has taken on additional responsibilities, Krapf said.

“I think she’s worth every penny we pay her,” said Councilman Frank Hutta.