Five officers with the Belleville Police Service were honoured for their ability, passion and dedication to the force Monday.

Belleville mayor and Belleville Police Services Board chair Taso Christopher and chief Ron Gignac recognized the recent promotions in front of a packed audience of family, friends and media at a meeting at the Belleville Public Library.

Certificates were presented to staff sergeant Rene Aubertin, staff sergeant Jeff Geen, staff sergeant Julie Forestell, sergeant Pat Kellar and sergeant Mike Lockwood.  Sergeant Mike Kiley, who also received a promotion, was absent from the ceremony.  Promotions took effect in November 2016.

Christopher said Gignac and deputy chief Mike Callaghan deserve congratulations for their leadership in promoting some of the most qualified officers in the region.

“These officers go above and beyond,” he said.  “This is something that we want to express to the families and to the community.”

“Any time that we can have an opportunity to allow them to be identified, it’s something that looks very good for everybody – the families and also the police department.”

Christopher was re-elected as board chair, while Brad Devolin will sit as vice-chair, both for one-year terms.

Christopher presented certificates to Gignac and Callaghan, congratulating them on their recent appointments on behalf of Bay of Quinte MP Neil Ellis.  Sergeant Pat Kellar was also recognized for his work with the United Way of Hastings and Prince Edward.

The next board meeting is scheduled for March 16 at 9 a.m. in council chambers, pending the completion of renovations at city hall.