WATERTOWN, S.D. (KWAT) — By the slimmest of margins, the Codington County Commission Tuesday approved acceptance of a Federal COPS Grant that will allow the sheriff’s department to hire an additional deputy.

Sheriff Brad Howell explained how calls for service have essentially doubled over the last ten years, which is exactly how long it’s been since the department last expanded its staff.

The COPS grant would cover the salary of the deputy for three years, and after that, it will be up to the county to fund that position.

Commissioner Lee Gabel made the motion to accept the grant.

Commissioner Chairwoman Brenda Hanten shared her thoughts.

Not everyone was on board with the idea.

Commissioner Myron Johnson weighed in on the issue.

The commission approved the grant on a 3-2 vote, with Gabel, Hanten and Troy VanDusen voting yes, and Commissioners Johnson and Charlie Waterman voting no.