ITHACA, N.Y. (WHCU) – The deadline to apply for the upcoming Ithaca Police Department (IPD) entrance exam has been extended.

IPD officials hope an extra few days will help attract more applicants to the department, which they say remains “severely” understaffed. Ithaca PBA President and IPD Sergeant Thomas Condzella says in the early 2000’s there were more than 80 sworn officers in the department. That number was reduced to 71 in 2011 and now sits at 38 sworn officers actively working at IPD.

“We work for a great community,” said Condzella. “We’re looking for the next generation of police officers to help us shape the future of law enforcement in Ithaca. Everyone has something to bring to the table.”

Ithaca Police officers earn an annual salary of $89,884 after three years of service and are entitled to health and dental benefits, state pension, and other benefits. Applications must be received by 4:30 p.m. on Monday, August 7, 2023.