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Union City delays hiring decision for full‑time police officer amid stormwater cost concerns
Summary
Council discussed a failed hiring motion for a full‑time police officer; Mayor Robert Wolf said the borough owes the candidate an explanation, while Councilors Melissa Winkler and James Kerns said stormwater repair costs influenced the decision.
Councilors on July 23 discussed but did not approve hiring another full‑time police officer, citing pending stormwater repair costs that have created concern about near‑term budget impacts.
Mayor Robert Wolf said the borough "owes the candidate an explanation" after the motion to hire failed; he and the police chief indicated the candidate is strong and will continue testing in the consortium. Councilor Melissa Winkler said she was not aware the council was moving to hire another officer and expressed concern about the costs associated with recent stormwater issues. Councilor James Kerns likewise noted stormwater costs and unexpected repairs as factors in the hiring decision.
Jeremy Sterling, a visitor from Centerville, asked council earlier what the outcome would be on the decision not to hire; council members said they would discuss the matter later in the meeting. The minutes do not record a subsequent vote to hire, nor a formal timetable to revisit the hiring question.
