The Janesville Police Department currently has 14 new officers that are undergoing some sort of training. A handful of them are expected to hit the street in the next month or so.

After being understaffed for years, the department could be close to full strength again by spring of 2025.

Chief Chad Pearson says it doesn’t mean he’ll pull back on recruitment and retainment efforts.

Pearson says the next generation of officers aren’t just motivated by salary and benefits. They want a work -life balance.

The department is exploring moving from eight-and-a-half hour shifts to 10 to 12 hour shifts.