Recent turnover and staffing changes brought about by annexation resulted in four vacancies on the force -- and a lengthy period of operation short on staff.
But with three recent hires and a fourth on the way, Lt. Randy Rosencrans says it will be business as usual for Homer's finest.
"Operating with minimal staffing, there's a lot of things we haven't been able to do," he said. "We've had to make different decisions on how to respond to calls."
Two of the three who are presently on the job, Stacy Luck and Paul Meyer, have been at it since January. A third, Nathan Hull, has lived in Homer since last fall, and signed on with the force last month after going through the police academy in Sitka.
In addition to regular police department training, such as for weapons handling and first aid, new recruits are also required to become familiar with Homer area and its people.
"Police officers are a part of the community. They have to react that way," Rosencrans said. "They need to provide a high level of service that is respective of the community."
In keeping with that notion, Rosencrans said, Luck, Meyer and Hull were all involved in the Fourth of July parade and have made it a point to meet people in the community.
Jason Crockett, the newest recruit, is expected to finish his preliminary training and join the force this fall.
"In their skill level, enthusiasm and potential, all four new officers are outstanding," Rosencrans said. "We are very fortunate to get them online."
New Homer Police Department officers at a glance (information from the HPD Web site):
