Mesa recently announced new hiring incentives for police officers.

The move comes shortly after the city said it’s doubling down on a commitment to prioritize public safety.

Mesa police say officers with experience at other law enforcement agencies can get a $5,000 bonus for switching departments and finishing training.

Recruits aspiring to pass the academy and become a Mesa police officer can earn a $3,500 bonus. Plus more cash is available for fresh recruits with a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

Mesa officials have said the city will add 117 full-time police personnel, such as patrol officers and a squad of expert trainers.

The figure is almost double the number of new police hires the city had forecast in 2018.

Money for the positions comes from a voter-approved public safety sales tax.