The Montgomery Chief of Police, Phil Smith is proud to announce that commander Liz Palko has been named the Kendall County Officer of the Year for 2024. Palko was awarded the honor at the Kendall County Law Enforcement Awards Dinner earlier this summer. This prestigious award recognizes her outstanding dedication, exemplary service, and commitment to the safety and well-being of the community.
Commander Palko has been with the Montgomery Police Department for sixteen years, coming to Montgomery after initially beginning her law enforcement career in Morton Grove. During her tenure, she has consistently demonstrated professionalism and a deep commitment to community policing. Her work has contributed to the Department’s growth and fostered stronger relationships between the Department and the residents of Montgomery.
Chief of Police Phillip Smith praised Commander Palko, stating, “Commander Palko embodies the values of our Department and the principles of community-oriented policing. Her tireless work ethic, compassion, and ability to connect with residents and stakeholders make her a true asset to our team and the entire Kendall County. This recognition is well-deserved, and we are incredibly proud of her achievements.”
In addition to her routine duties, Commander Palko has played a significant role in various community outreach programs, including initiatives aimed at youth engagement, crime prevention, and support for domestic violence victims. Notable achievements include leading the charge for many years of the community’s favorite Halloween Safety Event by the Montgomery Police Department. Her proactive approach and dedication to positively impacting have earned her the respect and admiration of her colleagues and the community.
Most recently, Commander Palko championed the implementation of a department comfort dog. The Montgomery Police Department adopted the German Shepard from Kendall County Animal Control in April 2022. Palko and two other officers have spent many hours caring, training, and integrating the Department’s comfort dog into the community. Aptly named “Monty,” short for Montgomery, has made a significant impact in the community, making many appearances at local schools, senior luncheons, and other community events to engage with the public and comfort officers back at the station.
The Kendall County Officer of the Year Award is presented annually to a law enforcement officer who has demonstrated exceptional service, leadership, and dedication to their community. Commander Palko was selected from a pool of nominees representing departments across the county.
The Montgomery Police Department and the Village of Montgomery extend their heartfelt congratulations to Commander Palko on this remarkable achievement. Her recognition as Kendall County Officer of the Year serves as a testament to her unwavering commitment to protecting and serving the residents of Montgomery and beyond.
For more information or to schedule an interview with Commander Palko, please contact the Public Information Officer at 331-212-9010 or knemetz@montgomeryil.org.
—Village of Montgomery