Lehighton has upped the ante in an attempt to attract more qualified police candidates.

On a 5-1 vote, borough council recently agreed to increase the sign-on bonus to $5,000.

Councilman Joe Flickinger was opposed, and Grant Hunsicker was absent.

During discussion, Councilwoman Jordyn Miller asked if there was a way they could expedite the process because the borough has been having trouble finding qualified applicants.

Councilwoman Becky Worthy said that testing is scheduled for May 31.

The last applicant accepted a position elsewhere.

“I understand that the police department is in need, but unfortunately, there’s no way we can do this any sooner,” Worthy said.

Borough police Chief Troy Abelovsky suggested changing incentives.

“We are a little behind the times in what we’re able to offer,” Abelovsky said. “It makes it increasingly difficult for us to bring quality candidates in.”

Mayor Ryan Saunders questioned if the borough should consider offering different incentives to possibly attract a better pool of candidates.

Abelovsky explained the problem is a large number of jobs are available.

“It’s a very competitive market,” Abelovsky said. “Where we’re lacking is bonuses.”

Abelovsky noted that the majority of departments are offering $5,000 sign-on bonuses.

He said that the borough’s police department is currently budgeted for 13 full-time officers, not including him. At present, he said it has 11 full-time officers, including himself, and three of whom are currently injured.

Flickinger questioned how now with more full-time officers than in year’s past, the borough isn’t able to handle the current call volume.

“This community can only afford so much,” Flickinger said. “Just because you’re budgeting money doesn’t mean you need to spend it.”

Abelovsky said the department is handling the call volume — which is above average with increased duties such as e-bike disturbances and displaced people incidents — to the best of its ability.

Saunders said the other thing to consider is the overtime budget. While they are not over budget, officers have had to cover extra shifts, which can become taxing on them.

Councilman Steve Hawk said he’s had multiple conversations with people in the borough who say they want officers out on the streets.

Abelovsky said it’s a different world these days for police officers to navigate through than in years past.

“There’s more that the community is asking of the police department,” Abelovsky said. “We can’t be everywhere at the same time.”

Abelovsky then suggested the borough increase the sign-on bonus and create another eligibility list.

Hawk suggested a $7,500 sign-on bonus, but that motion died due to lack of a second.

Councilman Dave Arndt then made a motion to increase the sign-on bonus to $5,000.

Application submission deadline is 4 p.m. May 22 to the borough secretary office at 1 Constitution Ave., Lehighton PA. 18235.

Applications may be obtained from Lehighton Borough Hall/Lehighton Police Department or going to www.lehightonborough.com/employment.

Contractual salary in 2026 is $86,795 based upon prior experience. The department is in a contract year and looking to remain highly competitive with surrounding departments.