For the past two years, Newton Falls has relied on the Trumbull County Sheriff's Department for its police services.

That's because the Newton Falls Police Department dissolved in 2022 due to financial constraints. But now a new police chief could be hired, potentially leading to the return of its department. 

On Monday, the Newton Falls City Council voted on a January 17th deadline for police chief applications. Gene Fixler was reinstated as police chief last summer but he's now eying retirement.

"Many of my former officers have been recommissioned as reserve officers because with me back at the helm, they want to come back," Fixler told 21 News.

Even with an inactive police department, Fixler explained a police chief is the first step to reinstating the department.

"The people of this community deserve their own police department," he said. "This council and this entire administration wants to do that for the residents, as well."

Ongoing concerns involving response times are a primary reason the village wants to bring back its department.

"The Sheriff's Department has been fantastic to work with but if the county has an emergency in another community, it's a haul for the Sheriff's Department to get to Newton Falls," said Mayor David Hanson. We need at least two officers on duty here in Newton Falls to ensure backup."

Village leaders, including Mayor Hanson, want to see the police department return, but they know it's easier said than done.

"The money has to come from somewhere," he told 21 News. "We're exploring a potential levy and also some of the municipalities have looked into the camera system for speeding."

From the rehiring process to replacing outdated equipment, the main concern is finances. The council does not know how much it could cost to reboot the department.

In April of 2024, 21 News reported a part-time department could be hired at a starting cost of $400k annually, if employee benefits were not paid.

"We've always had a good response and a good rapport with our sheriff," Mayor Hanson added. "So, we're looking to continue that but also to keep and maintain our own police department."

Budget reports show the village spent $842k on its police department in 2022.