Despite the recent transition to the green phase of Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf’s reopening plan, Whitehall Township Board of Commissioners met virtually July 6 for the workshop meeting.

Whitehall Township Chief of Police Michael Marks requested the police department be approved to add a deputy, a rank above lieutenant. Bill 21-2020 seeks to change the township civil service rules and regulations to be amended to include the specialized role.

Currently, there are four lieutenant roles in the department. Marks’ plan is to have the deputy fill one of those spots so the staff would include three lieutenants, one deputy and one chief.

This department has never had this role before. Commissioner Michael Dee mentioned the last similar role was in 1980 when the department had a captain.

Board Secretary Thomas Slonaker questioned the qualifications for the role. He noted the wording of the bill made it seem like a promotion from lieutenant and an oral interview were all that was required for this complex role.

His concern centered around the possibility of a lieutenant applying for this job from a different police department where they might not have had as much experience.

Marks acknowledged this could be a possibility, but with proper interviews and promoting within, the problem will be conquerable.

Another bill discussed was the purchase of a new Mack tandem-axle dump truck. According to the agenda, the truck had to be proposed to the board because it “requires authorization of acquisitions in excess of $25,000 by ordinance.” An exact cost was not given.

With the price being so high, Commissioner Jeffrey Warren expressed concerns regarding budgeting and funding. Warren discussed the continual deferral of recreation needs in order to fill in where other budgets fall short.

“We cannot hold back with our tools,” board President Philip Ginder stressed.

Although it may come with a high cost, this tool is a necessity, it was reported.

Deputy Mayor Jack Meyers explained this truck takes up to a year to order, making him confident the money will arise in the proper budget. Furthermore, Meyers pointed out the last Mack tandem truck was purchased in 1984, proving they are built to last.

The board next meets 7 p.m. July 13 via Webex. Instructions for public viewing can be found on the township website at whitehalltownship.org.