A proposal to enhance protection of the borough’s drinking water supply through a backflow prevention program was the focus of discussion during a recent Slatington Borough Council meeting.

Brian Preski of National Water Specialties outlined a system that would monitor cross-connections and backflow devices throughout the water system. Backflow occurs when water flow reverses direction, potentially allowing contaminated water to enter clean drinking water lines because of pressure changes within the system.

Preski said the proposed technology would allow borough officials to remotely monitor conditions.

“We would be able to check on the back flow in real time,” Preski said.

Officials reported that recent water testing found the borough’s water safe for human consumption.

Following discussion, Councilman Robert Krebs made a motion, seconded by Councilman Andy Hassold, to place the matter on the agenda for formal action at the next council meeting.

In other business, council approved the primary listing of accounts payable and transfers following a motion by Vice President Dave Schnaars and a second by Krebs.

Police, fire reports

Reporting on behalf of Police Chief William Borst, Mayor Jeralyn Schoch said the department handled 443 calls during August, including 292 incidents. Officers also issued 20 traffic citations and 34 parking tickets.

She also reported that the Slatington Police Training Center at 7933 Route 873 is expected to be operational late this month.

The center will save time and money so officers can train in town and be available for emergency calls.

Schoch said the Civil Service examination is scheduled for Oct. 10 at Northern Lehigh Middle School. Fire Chief Justin Frable reported the department responded to 18 calls in August.

“Our new firetruck is still expected in mid- to late spring,” Frable said.

Discussion on the potential sale of two older firetrucks was tabled.

Street work

Council learned that work associated with the 2026 Community Development Block Grant project on South Street and Washington Street was expected to begin today. Officials also reported a pre-construction meeting has been held for the 100 Steps project, with construction anticipated to begin in November.

The borough’s pavement study is 57% complete.

Council approved moving forward with renaming Long Alley as Fourth Street after residents reported address inconsistencies. Officials said Google Maps and the U.S. Postal Service already identify many of the affected properties as being on Fourth Street. Council authorized solicitor Lisa Young to prepare an ordinance.

Council also approved installation of a speed bump on Church Street near South Walnut Street to help slow traffic being diverted because of the Walnut Street bridge closure.

The time frame for repaving in Shadow Oaks was forwarded to a committee for review.