Union City Council hires part‑time officer after chief reports 269 summer calls

Union City Borough Council unanimously approved hiring Kenneth Fye as a part‑time police officer, voting to appoint him from the certified civil service list during its Aug. 13 meeting. The hire follows discussion of personnel during an earlier executive session and comments from Mayor Robert Wolf urging the borough to maintain a police department.

The decision responded in part to a summer surge in calls: Police Chief David Pernice told council that from June 1 through Aug. 13 the department handled 269 calls — about 3.63 calls per day — ranging from vehicle pursuits and warrants to domestic incidents, drug-related activity and homelessness. Pernice also noted recent incidents involving suicide and mental‑health crises and said he and Officer Shelly attended an active‑shooter training July 24–25.

Councilors debated hiring the candidate on a part‑time basis rather than full time to reduce payroll costs while expanding coverage. Borough Manager Cindy Wells said the budget had allowed at least $33,560 for wages and benefits and that hiring part‑time would be less than that amount. Councilor Kerns asked for cost details during the discussion. The motion to hire — moved by Councilor Joyce and seconded by Councilor Osborn — passed unanimously.

Pernice said he applied to the UC Community Foundation for funding to purchase four tasers and additional security cameras to expand coverage of North Main Street; the foundation awarded both requests. The council provided no additional immediate funding at the meeting beyond approving the part‑time hire.

The council approved the appointment in open session; the meeting adjourned at 7:06 P.M., followed by an executive session on personnel and contract matters in which no action was taken.