Slatington debates part-time officers pay

Slatington could look to increase the rate of pay for part-time police officers.

Borough police Chief Dave Rachman discussed the matter with borough council on Monday.

Rachman told council that police departments throughout the country are having difficulty finding part-time officers.

Rachman said Friday, “We’re all having a difficult time not only getting people to apply, but actually hiring them after the background investigation.”

Rachman said he’s proposing that the borough look to raise the salary for part-timers to a minimum of $19 an hour. The current rate is $17.51 an hour, he said.

The department currently has six active part-time officers, said Rachman, who added it also has six full-time officers, five of which are active.

The matter is expected to be brought up for discussion at the committee meeting scheduled for 6:30 p.m. May 29.

Speeding complaints

Also on Monday, several residents who live on Second Street told council they’re concerned with drivers who speed in that area.

Rachman said the matter has been “an ongoing issue,” as motorists use Second Street as a shortcut whenever traffic backs up on Main Street.

He said there are two four-way stops, one at Washington Street and another at Franklin Street, as well as an electronic speed monitoring sign urging residents to slow down.

Council said it would like to see more of a police presence in the area.