A pair of businesses have been recognized by Palmerton Borough officials for their commitment to the community.

Pencor Services Inc., and Brad Beers, of Bradco, were both acknowledged on Thursday by borough council with resolutions.The resolutions were in honor of individuals and organizations who recognize the community's needs, and take on the challenge of meeting some of those needs.Council President Terry Costenbader read the resolution in honor of Pencor."Pencor continues to make major contributions to our town in physical construction employment opportunities and services provided. This year alone has seen the further renovation and addition of retail space at 524 Delaware Avenue. The most visible addition to the center of town is construction of the three-story office complex at 462 Delaware Ave.. From their base in Palmerton, Pencor provides telephone, cable, newsprint and computer support to customers throughout central and eastern Pennsylvania."Costenbader then read the resolution in praise of Bradco."In 2010, Mr. Beers purchased an old, unheated garage at 714 Delaware Ave. for his business operations. Since that time, he has grown a company that has international clients using his specialized services. The unheated garage has been replaced by an attractive, modern service facility from which he now bases his operations. Mr. Beers has chosen to keep his facility in Palmerton, and make the investments necessary, to help our community prosper."In an unrelated matter, Councilwoman Holly Sell recognized a pair of borough employees for their service.Sell noted that public works department employee Frank Hofacker has been with the borough for 25 years, while secretary Lisa Engle has been with the borough for five years.Under his report, Mayor Chris Olivia thanked members of the Palmerton Holiday Lighting Committee for the Christmas in the Park event held in the borough park earlier this month."I never imagined this when it started; they did a beautiful job," Olivia said. "I'm looking forward to seeing Delaware Avenue next year.Also as part of his report, Olivia noted that while snow removal signs aren't posted, motorists must stop for pedestrians.Finally, Councilman Michael Ballard thanked the borough police department for their assistance in the recent Amber Alert that occurred in the borough.Ballard said the police officers were to be commended for ensuring that a 4-year-old girl was returned safely to her family after she was abducted on Dec. 14.That was followed by a round of applause by the audience.In other business, council:• Hired Thomas Smith as a public works employee at a rate of $13.08 per hour. Smith must obtain his CDL license within six months, pass a physical exam, and obtain a wastewater treatment plant license within five years.• Hired Ronnie George as a public works employee at a rate of $13.08 per hour. George must obtain his CDL license within six months, and pass a physical exam.• Granted Joseph Bennett an extension until Feb. 28, 2014, for a minor lot line adjustment for the new Dunkin' Donuts shop.• Approved an agreement with Susquehanna Insurance Company to serve as the borough workers' compensation supplier.• Amended an ordinance to add a handicapped parking space on the south side of the 900 block of Edgemont Avenue.• Announced that council will hold its reorganizational meeting at 7 p.m. Jan. 6.