NEWTON FALLS — Village council on Wednesday approved the village’s 2026 budget and the $671,700 appropriated for the police department will allow for the hiring of two full-time officers in January.

Police Chief John Barco said he appreciates the support from village council and the administration for the police department, which was restarted in July. Barco said the department has 18 part-time officers, which can be challenging for putting together a schedule.

Village Manager Jamie Vernaccini said the two full-time officers will be able to work eight- to 12-hour shifts to help the department with coverage. Barco, who is also full-time, said he will be able to schedule the part-time staff around the full-time officers’ schedules.

“Having two full-time officers will help immensely and create more scheduling stability,” Barco said.

He said the part-time officers are a great asset, but they work other jobs and often it becomes difficult to put them on the schedule based on when they are available. Barco said there has been discussion of a possible third full-time officer for the department in late 2026, but that is still being reviewed.

The police department offers 24-hour coverage in the village.

Vernaccini said two part-time officers will move to full time starting Jan. 1 and will work 12-hour shifts.

Second Ward Councilman Brian Axiotis said the budget for the police department was what the village was paying for the Trumbull County Sheriff’s Office.

“With the two-full time officers, it will not be costing us any more money than this year,” he said.

Mayor David Hanson said it is important to have a strong police department and supported having it brought back.

Barco has said at recent meetings that applications have been submitted for grants for equipment and other items to avoid taking money from the general fund budget.

In other business, officials said there are openings on the park / recreation board, planning / zoning board and the treasury investment board.

Vernaccini said when the boards do not have enough members to make quorum, the meetings have to be canceled or rescheduled.

She said the planning / zoning board is scheduled to meet at 6 p.m. Dec. 2 to review plans by Circle K to possibly move into the former Rite-Aid site. The business is seeking a variance and has submitted plans to the board for review.

Those interested in serving can contact the municipal building.

Also, Councilwoman-at-Large Julie Stimpert said with the 250th anniversary of the nation in 2026, plans are being discussed to host local events and promote the history of Newton Falls.

Stimpert said she attended a county meeting that included discussion on what many other local communities are planning for the 250th, including neighboring Braceville and Fowler.

She said she and Vernaccini have spoken with Newton Falls High School teacher Brian Bugos and students about how the school district can be involved with the 250th.