CORNING, N.Y. (WENY)-- Corning PD will be getting a new member of the force, a K-9 unit will be joining the department.

The City Council voted this evening to purchase a K-9 for the police department and train a police officer to be its handler. The unit will help with drug enforcement and the search and rescue of lost individuals.

City Manager Mark Ryckman says the funding for this is $60,000 and the money will also cover a vehicle for the K-9 Unit.

"The City Council voted to transfer $60,000 to pay for the vehicle that's necessary and also to accept a $20,000 pledge from the police union that they will raise that will pay for the dog some initial training and initial equipment,"  Ryckman said.

Ryckman added on an ongoing basis there will be some overtime for the dog handler, some supplies, and medical treatment for the K-9 unit. 

The K-9 Unit will join the department by July 1st.