Macungie Borough Council received an update on the search for a new police chief during its Oct. 5 meeting, as officials continue efforts to fill the leadership position and address long-term staffing needs within the police department.

Jerry Simpson of the Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association reported that applications for the position will continue to be accepted this month before the candidate pool is narrowed for additional screening and interviews.

Borough officials previously approved a recruitment profile for the position and engaged the association to assist with the search process. According to council discussion at its Sept. 21 meeting, the recruitment effort is expected to conclude around Dec. 1, allowing borough officials to move forward with candidate interviews and selection discussions in December.

The search follows council’s Sept. 21 approval of a recruitment profile establishing a salary range of $115,000 to $130,000 for the chief’s position. During that meeting, council members said the broader salary range would help attract a larger pool of candidates.

Officials also noted that current borough officers are welcome to apply for the position.

Simpson told council during the previous meeting that he had met with the Pennsylvania State Police, borough officials and representatives of the Lehigh County District Attorney’s Office as part of the consulting process. He also indicated the state police remain committed to assisting with patrol coverage as needed while the borough continues the search.