A job freeze implemented by Whitehall Township five years ago will continue through 2014, despite an improved economy, according to Mayor Edward D. Hozza Jr.

The job freeze will affect the public works, administration, treasurer's, recreation, zoning and planning and development departments/ bureaus. The freeze will not impact the police department, whose personnel fall under the terms of a collective bargaining agreement.

The job freeze mandated by Hozza went into effect in late 2008 and early 2009 when the national and regional economies tanked, affecting investments and township funds in the stock market, including its pension fund. Over the past year, the economy has slowly regained its footing.

"We want to build up the capital reserve fund," Hozza said.

Conceding the economy has improved, Hozza said he wants the trend to continue for the entire year, at which time the job freeze could be lifted, he said.

Even if the job freeze is lifted, no plans exist to begin a wholesale hiring of township personnel. There were 14 positions affected by the current job freeze that were across the board, Hozza said.

Hozza said the capital reserve fund with a $500,000 balance will be maintained throughout 2014. Hozza added no public services have been curtailed or hampered due to the job freeze.

The township also has an aggressive road improvement plan laid out for 2014.