Slatington Borough Council is moving forward with plans to repair the borough’s historic 100 Steps, while also advancing road projects and discussing safety concerns raised by a resident about dangerous dogs.

Abigail Bartels of Acela Engineering reported that the 100 Steps project is progressing through the prebid stage.

“100 Steps are moving forward,” the borough engineer said. “We are in the prebid process, updating costs to $460,000. Plans are done. PennDOT is satisfied with our answers to their concerns.”

The borough received a $400,000 grant three years ago to repair the approximately century-old steps at 213 Hill St., a steep pedestrian walkway used by residents to travel between Hill Street and surrounding areas. Officials said the steps are cracked and chipped and that the project will also address structural issues with adjacent retaining walls.

Council also approved a layout for the borough’s Community Development Block Grant project for South Street and East Washington Street and authorized it to be sent to the state for funding in the amount of $168,298.

During public safety discussion, resident Eugene Stalnecker asked council if the borough has an animal control officer, citing concerns about dangerous dogs near his home.

“In our neighborhood we have two dangerous dogs that have been deemed very dangerous by the dog warden,” Stalnecker said. “There is only one warden per county, so when you need him there is a big delay.”

Police Chief William Borst said the borough does not have an animal control officer.

“We don’t have the resources to monitor those situations,” the chief said.

Council President Ryan Mayberry directed Borough Manager Roy Hambrecht to place the issue on the agenda for the borough’s public safety meeting.

In his monthly report, Borst said the police department handled 318 incidents, made six arrests, responded to 42 traffic incidents and issued 51 parking tickets.

“I want to thank the Northern Lehigh School District for including us in their career fair,” Borst added.

He also noted the borough’s new patrol car is being outfitted with equipment from the existing vehicle. He said he will attend special Law Enforcement Executive Development Association training with the FBI in May, and the department will also send an officer to modern firearms training. Borst said additional officers have expressed interest in attending investigation school.

Fire Chief Justin Frable reported the Slatington Fire Department responded to 20 calls in March, averaging eight personnel per truck.

“Slatington Borough is in a burn ban,” Frable said.

Hambrecht said that letters were mailed to 614 residents and landlords informing them that National Meter Service will contact them to schedule installation of new water meters.

Council also tabled the sale of Slatington’s 1993 and 1996 firetrucks, along with discussion of purchasing a new firetruck.