At the April 2 South Whitehall Township Board of Commissioners meeting, Sgt. George Hummel was presented with a Distinguished Service Award.

Township Manager Tom Petrucci said the community is honoring Hummel after more than 25 years of dedicated service. Hummel, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran (1992–1996), has served in the South Whitehall Township Police Department since 1999, progressing through roles including patrol officer, field training officer, corporal and sergeant. He contributed to several specialized teams and volunteered in Law Enforcement United’s “Road to Hope” ride to support fallen officers and their families.

Throughout his career, Hummel has been a role model, leader and community builder.

In recognition of his exceptional service, the commissioners presented him with the award, expressing deep gratitude and wishing him continued success in retirement.

Diane Kelly, president, South Whitehall Township Board of Commissioners, presented the plaque to Hummel to recognize his distinguished career of service with the South Whitehall Township Police Department from Aug. 18, 1999 to April 1, a 26-year career with the department. “It’s been an honor and privilege to work with you throughout the years. We are deeply grateful to you and wish you the best,” Kelly said.

Hummel is not retiring from work; he is an adjunct professor at DeSales University in the criminal justice department and has been there since October 2004.

He is also program coordinator for Lehigh County DUI Task Force, managing an $800,000 Pennsylvania Department of Transportation grant encompassing 15 county police departments including the City of Allentown. He has held this role since January 2015.

In other business, the public works MS4 department announced the implementation of a Revised Pollutant Reduction Plan to enhance environmental protection. A major improvement includes the installation of a bio swale at the Davis Smith Property at Springhouse Road and Trexler Boulevard to address sediment buildup and flooding. The bio swale will improve water quality, reduce flooding and support sustainability efforts. A motion was made to re-advertise the public comment period and it was approved to be advertised in the newspaper.