Sweetin, Balsamo Honored by Chatham Borough

The Chatham Borough Council honored on Monday two longtime police department employees, Sgt. Robert Sweetin and Parking Enforcement Officer Nicolina Balsamo, who are retiring.

“You won't find two more dedicated people,” Police Chief  Philip J. Crosson, Jr. said. “They never said no to any request.”

Sweetin, whose retirement takes effect on April 1, started work as a dispatcher in the police department on Dec. 23, 1987, then became a patrolman on Feb. 16, 1988. He became traffic safety officer on Jan. 6, 2011.

Sweetin, who received numerous commendations and citations during his tenure,  “has continually demonstrated a genuine concern for all the people he has touched over his career,” according to the council resolution honoring his service.

Sweetin, who grew up in the borough and still lives here, thanked the council and said he would remain active in Chatham. “I’ll see you guys around,” he said.

“I had a good time,” he said. “I learned a ton.”

Balsamo began as a crossing guard in November 1972, then became parking enforcement officer on Jan. 2, 1983. She also served as police matron for the police department.

The resolution for Balsamo said she “demonstrated a care and concern for the children of Chatham, watching over the children to make sure they were safe.”

The resolution also cited the “great desserts” she made for other borough employees.

Balsamo retired on March 1.

“Both took a great deal of pride in their work,” said Councilman James Collander. “It’s sad to see them go.”