NILES — The city of Niles welcomed two new police officers to its ranks at a Thursday swearing in ceremony.

The day before Niles City Council approved an ordinance amending the authorized strength of the city’s police department, repealing and replacing the original ordinance to accommodate new hires amid staffing challenges.

Zachary McGarry of Liberty, previously with the Hubbard City Police, and Mitchell Prendergast of Struthers, a recent graduate of the Youngstown State University police academy, joined the force.

The additions bring the department’s staffing to 38 officers — one above the previously authorized level.

With law enforcement agencies nationwide struggling to recruit qualified candidates, a social media post stated that Niles police Chief Jay Holland saw an opportunity to bolster the department’s ranks. After consulting with Niles Mayor Steve Mientkiewicz and the city council, officials agreed to hire both officers, anticipating a retirement next year that will bring staffing back in line.

The police praised the collaboration between the mayor, city council, and city Auditor Nick Merlo to ensure the temporary overstaffing would fit within the department’s budget.