Police Department to Hire Two New Officers

Lawrence Township Mayor Jim Kownacki announced this week that Township Council intends to hire two new police officers, with the officers to begin candidates training in Sept. 2013. 

"While we have had to stretch police capacity due to budget restraints and some retirements over the last several months, I am pleased that we are able to recapture two police positions," Kownacki said. 

The addition of two new officers will bring the department's total roster to 58. 

"Through good budget discipline as demonstrated in a reduction of $1.3 million in the proposed 2013 budget as compared to 2012's budget, we are facing the reality that the Township must do more with less," Council Member Steve Brame said. "However, whenever we can find a way to expand essential services (hiring new police) rather than contract them, it's a positive indicator that we are on a good trajectory."