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Union City Council unanimously hires part-time police officer from certified list
Summary
Union City Borough Council approved hiring Kenneth Fye from the certified civil service list as a part-time officer, citing budget constraints and a desire for expanded coverage. The council voted unanimously on the motion.
The Union City Borough Council voted unanimously Aug. 13 to hire Kenneth Fye from the certified civil service list as a part-time police officer.
Councilor Joyce moved to approve hiring the candidate as a part-time officer and Councilor Osborn seconded the motion. Borough Manager Cindy Wells told the council the borough budget had allowed at least $33,560 for wages and benefits and that a part-time hire would cost less than the budgeted full-time amount. Mayor Robert Wolf had urged the council to maintain a police department and recommended hiring a part-time officer to bolster coverage.
Police Chief David Pernice reported recent operational pressure on the department, saying the force logged 269 calls between June 1 and Aug. 13, an average of about 3.63 calls per day, with incidents ranging from vehicle pursuits and warrants to domestic disturbances and mental-health-related calls. Chief Pernice said some calls can occupy an entire shift and expressed appreciation that council agreed to the part-time hire. He also noted that the UC Community Foundation awarded grants for four tasers and additional security cameras to expand coverage on North Main Street.
The council meeting record indicates the motion carried unanimously. The council did not specify the part-time officer’s initial schedule in the motion; Borough Manager Wells said final cost depends on the number of hours worked.
The council’s next regular meeting is scheduled for Aug. 27, 2024, with an adjusted September meeting on Sept. 16 because of Labor Day.
