WATAUGA, Texas -- The short-handed Watauga Police Department is taking action to fill vacancies, offering a $5,000 signing bonus in hopes of attracting experienced officers.
In addition to the signing bonus, the recruiting includes starting salaries of $54,124 to $70,619.
“We have through attrition become very short-staffed and we found it difficult to hire people,” Police Chief Robert Parker said.
The department doesn’t have the resources that other cities have to attract experienced officers, such as a dedicated SWAT team, so it is hoped the signing bonus and salaries will draw more interest.
The police department will conduct an entrance exam for certified police officers at 9 a.m. March 9 at 7101 Whitley Road. Applicants will take a 100-question test and complete a fitness exam.
