Catasauqua Council met in executive session after council's regular workshop session Monday to discuss updates on the agreement between Weston Solutions and FL Smidth to develop the industrial property along Front Street.

According to Councilman Vincent Smith, the companies failed to reach an agreement. However, the statement is unofficial.

FL Smidth is now offering to sell the property to the borough, according to Smith. Council Solicitor Jeffrey Dimmich called the closed-door session to examine the borough's alternatives and delve into the details.

When questioned by Councilman Alfred Regits during the workshop meeting, Dimmich confirmed the borough would not need to make any payments to the developer if Weston Solutions could not reach agreement with FL Smidth. A full report on the situation and the borough's alternatives is expected at council's regular session Monday.

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In other business, the council agreed to conduct an assessment interview with the five top candidates for open positions on the police force. Police Chief Douglas Kish reported to the council one officer on the force indicated he plans to retire in July. Regits suggested the council consider appointing two police officers.

The interviews will be conducted in an open session before Monday's regular meeting, with the first interview scheduled to begin at 5:45 p.m.

According to Dimmich, questioning candidates during the interview process is a delicate matter. He said several local municipalities have been sued for asking improper questions.

Dimmich agreed to provide council with an outline of acceptable questions and council agreed to discuss questions with Dimmich before the interviews.

"The interview is designed to see if you like the applicant and if they will fit in with the goals of the police force," said Dimmich.

Kish assured council all applicants undergo an extensive background check.

"If there are any questions, we will find them out during the background check," said Kish.

According to the new Civil Rules established by the borough, any candidate will be required to pay the cost of attending the police academy. New officers are on probation for the first year and can be dismissed for any reason during the probationary period.

In other business, Debra Mellish volunteered her grant writing expertise and was able to secure $1,500 for the George Taylor House from the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR).

The monument on the lawn in front of the Taylor mansion will be dedicated Sunday, May 5, with ceremonies beginning at 1 p.m. The Sheckler School Band will perform and representatives of the DAR will be in attendance along with a host of other special guests.

Also, Mayor Barbara Schlegel reported a community flea market will be held May 4 on Second Street. Thirty vendors have signed up. Table space is still available. Proceeds benefit the police K-9 unit.

Glen Stine's family asked that the borough put some lasting marker on the land donated by the Stine family to the borough. Councilwoman Jessica Kroope suggested a large boulder with a bronze plaque. The suggestion will be passed on to the Stines for their approval.