The South Whitehall Township Police Department bid a heartfelt farewell to one of its most loyal officers Aug. 20, as K-9 Drax was officially retired from service.

Drax, was born in 2017 in Belgium, Holland and began his career with the township in 2018 after completing an intensive eight-week dual-purpose training program with his handler, Sgt. Kevin Smith.

Over the next seven years, the pair became a trusted team, serving the community in narcotics detection, suspect tracking, article recovery and tactical operations.

“Drax was deployed countless times and proved himself to be an invaluable partner,” Chief of Police Frank Lombardo said during the presentation.

Drax’s contributions include assisting in a major criminal investigation in 2019 and helping apprehend a homicide suspect in 2024.

Beyond his police work, Drax was a familiar face at community demonstrations throughout Lehigh County and was equally beloved at the station for his playful personality and strong bond with fellow officers.

After careful consideration, the department and Smith decided it was time for Drax to enjoy a well-earned retirement.

Smith will adopt Drax, ensuring he spends his remaining years in a loving home.

The board of commissioners unanimously adopted a resolution recognizing Drax’s service and authorizing the transfer of ownership to Smith.

“Tonight, we thank K-9 Drax and his trusted partner for their teamwork and service to our community,” the board’s statement read. “We wish Drax a happy, healthy retirement – truly man’s best friend.”

Representatives from Nestlé Purina returned to the South Whitehall Township Board of Commissioners meeting this week to provide a status update on their long-delayed water line project.

Attorney Stephanie Kobal of Fitzpatrick, Lentz, & Bubba, speaking on behalf of Nestlé Purina, noted the company was granted a one-year extension in April 2025 with the condition they report back to the board this summer.

Kobal explained the company is on track to finalize and record its land development plan in the fourth quarter of 2025, ahead of the April 2026 extension deadline.

“That gives us some buffer room … in case things happen, as they do,” she said.

Legal documents have already been reviewed and finalized, with title work prepared to move quickly once approvals are in place.

While construction activity is unlikely during the winter months, Kobal assured the board once the plan is recorded, the project will move forward in due course.

Commissioner Chris Peischl raised concerns about keeping nearby residents informed, particularly regarding the cost of tying into the water line – an issue raised at earlier public meetings.

Fitzpatrick acknowledged updated cost estimates have not yet been shared but explained fluctuations in construction costs make it prudent to wait until closer to the start of work.

Board members stressed the importance of communication, encouraging Nestlé Purina to reach out to residents directly.

“They would want to know … that you didn’t forget about them,” Peischl said.

Kobal agreed and pledged to keep neighbors in the loop as the project advances.

The update concluded without public comment and the board thanked Nestlé Purina for providing the progress report.