Palmer Police Chief Wraps Up First Year

You don't ever hear Palmer Police Chief Larry Palmer patting himself on the back.

After such initiatives as getting tasers, pushing for accreditation and recognizing his department with police awards, you would think that Palmer would be proud of his first year at the helm.

But the former Easton police chief is a pretty humble guy.

"It went by real fast," the chief said before a recent Board of Supervisors meeting. "It's like I blinked and it was gone. But it's been real good. We're doing well."

Township officials, though, were more than happy to offer accolades.

"It's been an extremely successful first year," Township Manager Christopher Christman said. "He has vision and foresight of where he wants to see the department in one year, five years and 10 years. He wants to succeed on all avenues. I'm very pleased to have him as part of our team."

Christman touted Palmer's handling of the police department budget and overtime expenses.

"Before Larry came in, our police overtime budget was $500,000. We lowered it to $400,000. he brought it in at $250,000," Christman said.

"He recognizes the constraints of the budget," he said. "He's knows that our township coffers do not have an endless supply of funds and that we need to be accountable to taxpayers."

Supervisor Bob Lammi also praised Palmer.

"His joining our team has made a world of difference," Lammi said.

Lammi said Palmer has worked to implement 12-hour shifts, gotten tasers and  established a strong management style.

Supervisors Chairman Dave Colver agreed.

"It has been a complete restructuring," Colver said. "He has a year under his belt. Everything is looking very positive. I'm extremely satisfied."