Slatington swears in 2 police officers
Mayor Jeralyn Schoch swore in two full-time police officers during Monday night’s borough council meeting, marking a return to the department for both officers.
Officer Amanda Segarra, who began her law enforcement career in Slatington, returns after four years of service elsewhere.
“I’m really happy to be back where I started,” Segarra said.
Officer Kevin Torres, who brings eight years of experience, also rejoined the department and expressed gratitude for the opportunity.
Both officers are parents — Segarra has a daughter and Torres has a son.
Police Chief William Borst announced plans to deploy two officers on bicycles during summer events and along the D&L trail.
He also reported efforts to install surveillance cameras at Main Street intersections.
Councilman Ronald Kratz praised Borst’s leadership, saying, “Your department feels you really listen to them.”
Councilman Aaron Schoch reported success with the recently installed speed signs on the 300 block of East Church Street, noting that drivers have slowed down.
in other business, Kris Burek, a member of the Lehigh County Aging and Adult Services Advisory Council, spoke to borough council about promoting the Slatington Senior Center at George Dillard Manor, 425 Kuntz St.
The center is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., with lunch served at 11:15 a.m. for $2.50.
Burek asked the borough to add information about the center to its website and consider making a donation.
“Due to cuts from Washington, we’re not receiving the funding we used to,” she said, emphasizing the need for funds to support transportation and outings.
Schoch suggested organizing a fundraiser.
The borough’s street sweeper has been repaired, said borough manager Roy Hambrecht.
He also suggested codifying ordinances online at a cost of $9,500 — a proposal that was sent to committee.
Hambrecht said the borough is currently in a strong budget position at 27% for the year.
He also raised the issue of the borough lacking a tenant list and proposed a $562,000 renovation of Roosevelt Park. The project would include a new playground, basketball court and paving.
Hambrecht recommended applying for a $250,000 Greenways grant, with council President David Schnaars suggesting the remaining $312,000 be budgeted over two years.
Councilman William Schippers confirmed that Doggie Day Care will handle stray dog intake, with paperwork pending.
Nancy Treskot of the Venture Group thanked the Masons for recent landscaping work at the Trailhead and Veterans Park.
She also inquired about the status of event applications for a May 23 wedding and a May 31 car wash. Fire Chief Robert Reph said there is a potential scheduling conflict with St. Luke’s annual trail run on May 31.
Treskot also encouraged council to consider an ordinance addressing overnight use of trail bathrooms and loitering on borough property.
During public comment, resident Kris Burek asked the solicitor Lisa Young for an update on former office staff. Young declined to comment, citing an ongoing investigation by the district attorney.
Council approved the following requests:
• A block party hosted by Andreas Hassold at Maple Springs Acres on Pine Tree Drive, scheduled from noon to 10 p.m. on Aug. 9;
• A fundraiser by the Northern Lehigh Swimming Pool Association on June 12 at Main and Grove streets, featuring Vince’s Famous Cheesesteaks;
• A Community Day event on June 1 organized by Reph, including a one-day alcohol permit on borough property.