To the Editor:

Dec. 29, 2025 was bittersweet. With tears in my eyes, I listened as Lehigh County Executive Phil Armstrong and Lehigh County Commissioner Ron Beitler attended the Alburtis Borough Council meeting to bid me farewell. What an honor to be recognized by those outside of the borough who have witnessed the accomplishments of not only myself but an entire community.

I am very proud of all I have achieved over 20 plus years.

The proclamations received by the Lehigh County Executive, all Lehigh County Commissioners as well as U.S. Rep. Ryan Mackenzie, R-7th, are, in my eyes, a way of saying thank you for a job well done.

As Mr. Armstrong said, “I want you to know that you are Alburtis!”

From 2006, until the untimely passing of former Mayor Robert Mader in 2012, (at which time I was appointed mayor) it has been a privilege and an honor to serve the residents of our small community.

When I served on council as well as mayor, it was to serve the community and not have a personal agenda. There was never a time when I did not take the best interest of our entire community into consideration.

During these 20 years, I have held a full-time job as a paralegal/office supervisor with a staff of 22 individuals. I have been very involved in all of the Alburtis community events.

In 2013, I was recognized as Mayor of the Year by the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce.

I broke the tie to accept the $1.4 million grants and broke the tie to save the upper ballfield for our youth.

Attend council meetings, stay informed, keep your eyes and ears open. Know the difference between borough business and social events.

Wishing you all a very happy, blessed and safe New Year.

With sincere

regards,

Alburtis Mayor Kathleen Palmer