OWEGO, N.Y. -- The future of the Owego Police Department is looking even more uncertain.
Just last year, two police officer positions were eliminated in the village. Now, the Owego Board of Trustees is discussing the possibility of cutting the police chief position to part-time. Karen Vinti has held the position since 2011.
The police commissioner says the village faces ongoing financial stress, and is looking to save money where possible.
"Because we've had the cuts, there's been an uptick in crime and we need even more than what we have now. So taking away just doesn't make sense for the community," said village business owner Kelly Hathaway.
"I just think it's important for the residents to know that we have a secure police chief and officers that are there on call for us whenever it's necessary," added village resident Carol Sunderwirth.
Last year, the village also started examining the idea of dissolving the police department altogether, and merging forces with the Tioga County Sheriff's Office.
The next Village of Owego Trustee meeting is May 1.