Savannah-Chatham County police are out to recruit former officers willing to return to wearing their badges and uniforms part-time.

The Savannah City Council has approved Police Chief Willie Lovett's request to sign up reserve officers to work at least 30 hours every three months. Police say the reserves will be outfitted and equipped just like full-time officers.

Lovett says the reserve program will allow him to put more police on the streets at a time when tight budgets have left little room for hiring additional full-time officers.

Retired or former Savannah police officers who left in good standing will be allowed to enter the reserve program immediately. Other applicants will be required to complete the state police academy course at their own expense.

Tags: Savannah City Council, Savannah-Chatham Metropolitan Police, reserve officers