(KLZA)-- The Pawnee City Council has ratified a new contract for law enforcement services for the community.

The Council voted unanimously this week to approve a three-year contract to have the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Office provide law enforcement services for the community. The new contract calls for a 3-percent price increase each year of the contract.

A stipulation in the contract calls for the increased amount to be applied directly towards salaries for law enforcement officials.

Pawnee County traditionally has been a spot for newly hired deputies to begin their law enforcement career, but after gaining experience, they leave for better paying positions. Officials are hoping the higher pay will allow the deputies to remain in Pawnee County.  

The Pawnee County Commission approved the contract last week.