An awards policy has been established to reward police officers in Palmerton who go above and beyond the normal call to duty.

Borough council on a 6-0 vote Thursday approved the police department awards policy. Councilman Richard Nothstein was absent.

Borough police Chief Tim Kromer said anyone who believes an officer should be recognized may contact him at the police department and provide details of what took place.

After the meeting, Kromer explained the impetus that led to the creation of the police department awards policy.

“I thought we should probably have a way to recognize the guys,” Kromer said. “We just wanted to create a policy so there’s a formula to follow for it.”

At last month’s meeting, council presented commendations to Detective Kevin Buck, as well as officers Shawn Leadbetter and Brian Stern.

Buck was acknowledged for leading an investigation that led to numerous felony charges and ensured the safety of an individual who was the victim of identity theft as well as the safety of others affected by the threat.

Leadbetter and Stern were recognized for actions during a fire that prevented a total loss of the building and allowed the fire company to swiftly and effectively react at the scene.