Some people in Redding are questioning the size of the town's police force and whether it's needed in the mostly rural community.

According to News Times, at one recent meeting, a resident proposed a return to the resident state trooper program, which the town used until about 15 years ago.

The 17-officer department costs the town about $2.4 million a year.

First Selectman Julia Pemberton defended the size of the department, saying they have recently made some money saving moves.