Butler police desk sergeants were moved to patrol city streets beginning at 8 a.m. Monday.

The police department had previously maintained an officer at its desk 24 hours a day to answer phone calls and speak with residents who walk into the station.

Butler County Emergency Services took over dispatching responsibilities for the department.

Mayor Tom Donaldson said the move was made to get more officers on patrol on the streets. The police department has 23 officers.

Steve Bicehouse, director of county emergency services, said the first day was going smoothly for county dispatchers.

He reported no major issues, saying that there only were minor issues that did not affect any services.

The police station remains open to the public during daytime business hours, but the public will not be able to be buzzed into the station overnight.

Instead, an emergency phone has been installed outside the station that can be used to dial 911.