A Slatington business owner hopes for improved police coverage.

A letter from John Bechtel from Bechtel’s Pharmacy was read to the borough council during its recent meeting.

“I would like to advocate for the Slatington Police Department for the safety of the residents of Slatington,” Bechtel wrote.

In the letter, Bechtel refers to a break-in at Bechtel’s Pharmacy on the morning of Nov. 26.

“As a business owner and manager of the pharmacy, I admit I was unprepared for what happened.”

Bechtel related how a Slatington Police officer was not available. Police from Walnutport, Lehigh Township, and the Pennsylvania State Police responded.

“We were told by the State Police that they could not start an investigation without authorization from Slatington.”

After a long delay, a Slatington police officer finally arrived, and they could start their investigation.

“I wonder what could have happened if gunfire was involved, or an overdose, or any other life-threatening event happened. Please support our Mayor and Police Chief in their effort to protect our community.”

Police Chief Greg Winokur addressed Bechtel’s letter.

“The state police that were on the scene did tell them that they could not do anything investigative-wise,” Winokur said. “That was a miscommunication on their behalf. They still will not handle non-priority calls; but, they will help on priority calls. The issue has been corrected.”

Winokur also advised council that they have completed documentation for a new hire for the police department, and hope to have the potential new officer working soon, and has another possible candidate for the department.

Other business

Other Slatington Borough items:

• Councilor Jeffrey Hausman advised council that the Chestnut Alley paving project is complete.

• Council passed a motion to approve and advertise the 2024 meeting schedule

• Council Vice President Bryon Reed was appointed a special representative on the Northern Lehigh Comprehensive Plan Zoning Committee for 2024.

• Council voted to make a yearly donation to Northern Valley Ambulance in the amount of $9,454.52

• A motion was passed to co-host shredding event with Zach Mako on Oct. 5, 2024, at a cost to the borough of $325.

• A motion was passed to accept revised Yard Waste Composting Agreement. New agreement will add the Borough of Walnutport and allow costs to be split 3-ways instead of the current 2-way split. Residents will be able to take tree branches and other yard waste to be turned into mulch, and residents can take the mulch home with them.

• A motion was passed to approve appointment of a new attorney for sewer permit renewal.

• A motion was passed to purchase new line tracer for Water Department at a cost of $3,700. The line tracer helps find water leaks in the water lines.