Holy Trinity Memorial Lutheran Church, 604 Fourth St., Catasauqua, hosted a Coffee with the Cops event Feb. 15.

The gathering coincided with Holy Trinity Memorial Lutheran Church’s Wednesday evening free soup and fellowship event.

Catasauqua Borough Police Chief Douglas Kish fielded questions on the current state of affairs he faces in the financially struggling borough.

Kish did express satisfaction the police department recently received a Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency grant totaling about $800,000. The grant from the PCCD was submitted by Steve Travers, former Catasauqua borough manager; DRC Technologies; and Remington and Vernick Engineers.

The grant will fund the purchase of computer- and technology-related items for the police department - new server, network equipment, video surveillance equipment and other technological necessities. Kish noted the technology upgrade is overdue, adding these upgrades are very expensive.

When asked if he has enough officers, Kish lamented a full-time officer recently left the department. Many local police departments are having difficulty garnering enough applicants for selection as a police officer. Catasauqua is no different.

Kish did say there are times when the borough is covered by one police officer, but it is not typical. He noted the overtime budget cuts made by borough council can make staffing more challenging.

The conversation shifted to social media and some negative social media comments about the police and the borough. Municipalities, such as Bath, are striking back at the misinformation found on social media. Bath now has a section on its borough website debunking some information posted on social media.

Attendees also approached Kish during his time at this Coffee with the Cops to ask questions, provide him their best wishes and express appreciation of his long, successful career.