ALTO — It's a story that got attention nationwide -- the small East Texas City of Alto getting rid of their police force to save money.

But now, police protection is finally coming back.

The department was furloughed this past June... so they're going on 6 months now with no cops.

Cherokee County Sheriff's deputies have been keeping an eye on the city.

Sheriff James Campbell tells KETK, the city has been through an increase in crime since the decision was made to lay off the officers.

"I think its gonna make a lot of people in the town a lot more at ease.  It's gonna help the merchants maybe cutting down on the damage and thefts they had on their stores, and the school as well.  I think it can't be anything but a positive thing for them," Campbell said.

Alto City Council members unanimously approved the re-activation of the department in a special meeting last week.

Now, they're hiring.

Officials say anyone interested in the job can pick up at application at city hall.

The hiring process will go on until November 14th.