Northampton Borough Council at the June 16 meeting put on hold a request from Police Chief Ron Morey to add a full-time officer to the force - taking the roster to 13, not including part-time, patrolmen.

Vice President Keith Piescienski, police committee chairman, whose committee reviewed Morey’s request, told his colleagues, “We put it back on hold,” referring to the issue being tabled.

“This budget is one-half through the year. We have no wiggle room now. Maybe next year,” Councilman Robert Coleman said.

Councilman Anthony Lopsonzski Sr., a retired borough police officer, said, “A police officer is important. I do agree the funds already have been allocated. It does become a balancing act.”

However, Lopsonzski, looking at borough Manager Leroy Brobst, said when the administration puts together the 2017 budget and presents it to council, adding another full-time police officer “should be the first priority.”

Morey, who attends council meetings, did not speak on the issue.

Mayor Thomas Reenock, who heads the police department as mayor, was not present at the council meeting.

In another police matter, Brobst said the borough and police negotiating members met as bargaining talks regarding a new police wage and benefits contract got underway. The borough manager said officers submitted their contract proposal, and the borough responded with a counter offer.

Further talks will be scheduled. The present pact expires Dec. 31.