A recently purchased holding cell inside the Palmerton police station is nearing completion.

Borough police Chief Tim Kromer said at Thursday’s borough council meeting that the holding cell walls are completed.

Kromer said they are awaiting the prisoner bench and ceiling. After the meeting, he said the holding cell is about 75% complete.

In October, council on a 6-0 vote agreed to purchase a holding cell in the amount of $17,149 from Josh Reichard’s Home Improvements.

The project is funded in part from the borough’s Rescue Funds, with the rest from the general budget.

Councilman Kris Hoffner said the holding cell was a top priority for the police department.

Borough police Chief Tim Kromer talked about a previous incident in which a man in custody, who has since died, became difficult to get under control and spit on one of the borough police officers and caused damage to a police vehicle.

Council has discussed long-term plans for the police department, and whether it can remain at its site inside the Municipal Services Building at 401 Delaware Ave.

Councilman Cory Kepner said the key is trying to find adequate space, and added he believes a new facility would be the easiest and most streamlined approach to take.