New Hope Hires Part-Time Officer, Extends Fire Inspection Contract, Adds Time To Parking Lot Lease & More

New Hope Borough Council members were busy at Wednesday evening’s public meeting. 

Council unanimously voted to hire a part-time police officer to joined the borough’s force.

Officer Steven Johnson was sworn in to take on his new role.

Residents in attendance gave Johnson a round of applause as he begins his new job with the New Hope Police Department.

The council approved the purchase of new service weapons for the police department.

Council also approved the proposal from the New Hope Eagle Fire Company for fire marshal services.

The borough will sign a one-year extension of the fire inspection agreement with the New Hope Eagle Fire Company for a $25,000 per year rate.

Council approved seven certificates of appropriateness toward the beginning of the meeting. The approved certificates include sign installations, exterior painting, and door and window replacements in the borough.

The council approved a 90-day extension on the parking lot lease agreement with the Old Stone Church; the appointment of Kelly Whitman to the planning commission; and a special event permit application for the Run Now, Wine Later 5k event.

When it came to council member reports on committees, Councilwoman Louise Feder said that the Parks and Recreation Board discussed planting flowers and other plants during the summer.

Vice President Laurie McHugh said the Shade Tree Commission discussed residents and tourists not tying or locking their bikes to trees anymore. She reiterated the fact that there are several bicycle lots available throughout the borough. 

Lisa Littlefield, the new zoning officer hired recently, was introduced to the public during the end of the meeting.