BELLS, TX -- The city of Bells is cutting back its police force. At a budget meeting Tuesday night, city council members decided to reduce the number of officers from four to three.

The Police Chief declined to speak on camera, and Mayor Pro-Tem Shirley Mullinix did not return our phone calls regarding the decision.

At the Tuesday meeting, council members also decided to add a position in the water department, increasing the number of water department employees to three.

We spoke with some Bells residents who say while they would like more law enforcement, they understand that there just isn't enough money to go around.

"The city is hurting. All you have to do is look at the streets. Look at the infrastructure of this town," said Bells resident Ron Downs.

The reduction of the Bells police force is expected to take place within the month.