WATERTOWN, S.D. (KWAT) — Watertown’s police force will be expanding by three additional officers next year thanks to a $375,000 federal COPS (Community Oriented Policing Services) grant.

Police Chief Lee McPeek told the city council Monday night that their grant application was approved June 25.

He says three additional officers will get the department adequately staffed.

McPeek was asked what roles these three new officers will fill.

The vote to accept the COPS grant and the three new officers that will come with it was unanimous, but Councilman Glen Vilhauer says other city departments with needs are watching.

The grant requires the three additional officers remain on the police department staff at least four years, with that fourth year coming entirely at the city’s expense.