Emmaus Borough Council officially welcomed Joseph Sokolofski as the borough’s new chief of police during its Sept. 8 meeting after certifying the results of his Civil Service examination. Sokolofski was sworn in during a special ceremony following council’s action.

Among other business, council approved Ordinance 1288, vacating a portion of Perkiomen Street. The ordinance previously was reviewed by the Health, Sanitation and Codes Committee and the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission before returning to council for final approval.

Council also approved a request from the Knauss Homestead to host a salsa dance Sept. 26 from 7 to 10 p.m. in the lower level of the barn. Members additionally reviewed concerns submitted by Pathways to Change regarding Da Smoke Shop, 2 S. Fourth St. The organization said conditions surrounding the business have deteriorated and warrant intervention. Council referred the matter to the public safety committee.

In mayoral business, council approved Proclamation 2026-649 recognizing the 25th anniversary of Sept. 11, 2001, as Patriot Day and National Day of Service and Remembrance. The proclamation honors those who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks, as well as first responders and others affected.

The parks and recreation committee reported rehabilitation work at Lions Playground is progressing well, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony expected in November.

The general administration committee recommended, and council approved, the hiring of a police officer and a full-time water and sewer billing clerk. Council also approved a fee-in-lieu-of-parking request for 569-571 Chestnut St., allowing the property’s parking requirement to be satisfied through a payment to the borough rather than on-site parking spaces.

The budget and finance committee presented Resolution 2026-26 approving the borough’s bill list totaling $2,546,013.91. Council also reviewed August revenue and expense reports and budget performance figures.

In the borough manager’s report, council approved the promotion of Charles Wesch to Class 4 public works employee. Borough Manager Shane Pepe also announced well No. 1 is expected to return to service within the next week following PFAS-related renovations.