PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — The mayor of Providence, Rhode Island, and other city officials have announced support for hiring 50 new police officers next year after previously discussing reducing or canceling the police academy.

WPRI-TV reports that Mayor Jorge Elorza questioned in July if the city needed more officers or if those funds should be allocated to other investments.

The police academy was scheduled to begin in February. But a budget dilemma, logistical issues surrounding testing recruits and calls to defund police intervened.

Council Finance Chairman John Igliozzi says he worries the city will not be able to address its needs as the police force shrinks through attrition.