Personnel changes lead Emmaus council’s June agenda
Jake Meluskey
Special to the Press
At its June 15 meeting, Emmaus Borough Council appointed a new council member, hired and promoted employees, and swore in two police officers, highlighting a series of personnel changes across borough government.
Council swore in police officers Zachary Christman and Jeremy Schmick, adding to the department as municipalities continue to face staffing challenges.
Members also filled a vacancy created when Kate Watt moved out of the borough. Following interviews with four candidates, council appointed LeaAnn Buchman, restoring the board to full membership.
Additional personnel actions were approved later in the meeting. Council authorized the hiring of two public works employees and two additional police officers, citing recent retirements. The police hires are contingent on successful completion of probation.
In other staff-related matters, council acknowledged the resignation of Nigel Watt from the planning commission, the retirement of Teresa Pohlmann, and Police Officer Craig Blose’s entry into the Deferred Retirement Option Plan (DROP). Council also accepted the resignation of Crystal Jones from the EMS Department.
During the borough manager’s report, council approved several personnel changes, including the separation of employment for William Raab and Mark Simpkins, the retention of Logan Davidson as a full-time public works employee after completing probation, the promotion of Justin Haman to master firefighter and the hiring of Joshua Orach as a seasonal park employee.
Beyond personnel matters, council approved a metal roof installation for the historic 1803 House following discussion about historical accuracy. Members also approved minutes from the May 18 meeting and reviewed financials through Resolution 2026-22.
Council considered event requests for the Emmaus 4 Mile Classic, a proposed “Music Café” series at Triangle Park, and an “Emmaus Art & Vintage” event. All were referred to the Parks and Recreation Committee.
Additional approvals included a project security release tied to a maintenance letter of credit and Resolution 2026-23 for sewage planning at 216 S. Second St.
Committee reports covered ongoing work across departments, including public works operations, code enforcement, development activity and community programming.
Emmaus Boro Hall








