NEWTON FALLS — As the police department will be adding two full-time officers next week, village officials praised the work done by the police staff in managing its budget and spending less in bringing the department back to operation.

Police Chief John Barco told village council Wednesday that since the police department reopened last July while offering 24-hour service, 1,958 calls have been addressed.

The department has a full-time chief, two full-time officers starting Jan. 15, and 16 part-time officers.

He said some of the cases dealt with serious felony offenses that directly affected the safety of the community.

In addition to dealing with crime, the department also took part in community events, such as National Night Out, senior watch programs, Shop with a Cop, food drives, trunk or treat, and Fill a Cruiser.

“These events allowed for the development of a strong bond between the community and the police department,” Barco said. “There have been educational programs in the school district that connect students with law enforcement in learning life skills.

We have received numerous compliments from the public welcoming the police department back in operations in the community.”

He said officers have attended updated training programs.

Village Manager Jamie Vernaccini said the police department budget was at $538,435, which was $96,100 less than what was approved. She said Barco was able to save money and make efforts to conserve spending so fewer dollars were spent.

Mayor David Hanson praised the department for staying within its budget and also being able to save money.

“Since the department was brought back the police officers have done a great job protecting the community. I am very proud of the job they have done,” Hanson said.

Council in November approved $671,700 for the department, which allows for the hiring of two full-time officers.

Barco said having the two full-time officers who can work eight to 12-hour shifts will help the department with coverage and schedule stability.

He had previously said it was challenging to put a schedule together with 18 part-time officers since they work other jobs.

Hanson said it is important to have a strong police department and supported bringing it back.

He said the majority of the community supports bringing back the police department.

Barco said he has been able to save money by submitting applications for and receiving grant money to avoid taking money from the general fund budget.

Barco said when the department restarted he and the officers focused on what can be done to best serve and protect the residents.

“The progress of the past six months has been real. This department believes in growth and accountability. These officers serve the community with dedication, honor, integrity and professionalism,” he said.

Barco said all officers serving the department have passed background checks and bring experience to the job.

Resident Patricia Benetis, a former councilwoman, said she ran for council with a goal of bringing the police department back.

She praised the work the department has done including a recent arrest of a man who tried to rob a Dollar General but was caught in the parking lot.

“The best thing this community did was bring the police department back,” said resident Denny Cottrill.

Cottrill said there are concerns from residents of the drug rehab houses, and the people who go there and wander around parts of the village.

Hanson said the rehab houses are a concern but the individuals going there have rights.

Second Ward Councilman Brian Axiotis said the drug rehab facilities have been a topic of concern for the past four years.

“Other communities have been challenged on what they have done with drug houses. We have to be careful about what we do. It is like walking on eggshells,” Axiotis said.

First Ward Councilman Brian Kropp said the village is looking at what can be done but needs to do things to not to discriminate against anyone.

He said other communities dealing with the drug rehab facilities have faced lawsuits, which the village wants to avoid.

“Give us the opportunity to look into this and address it,” Kropp told residents at the meeting.