For the first time in its history, the Sammamish Police Department will add volunteer reserve officers to augment its force.

The department is currently in the process of filling five permanent volunteer positions and will hold an informational seminar for those interested from 7 to 9 p.m., Monday, Jan. 30 at Sammamish City Hall.

“We’ve had a lot of people interested because it is a very unique opportunity to serve their community,” said Sgt. Jessica Sullivan.

Reserve officers will be asked to work a minimum of 32 hours per month during the first year training period, and then 20 hours per month thereafter. They will respond to calls, have full arresting authority and will also work community events like Fourth on the Plateau.

Sullivan said there is no prior police experience necessary, but it is preferable if candidates live in Sammamish.

The King County Sheriff’s Office, which contracts with the City of Sammamish, has had a volunteer program before, but this is the first time volunteers will be specifically designated to Sammamish.

Sullivan said the types of people who currently volunteer for the KCSO vary from a pastor, to a Boeing worker, to a local business owner.

“They really comes from all walks of life, different backgrounds,” she said. “They’re typically the kind of people who say I’ve always wanted to be a cop.”

Once hired, volunteers will be required go through the State Reserve Police Academy and be required to undergo 300 hours of training before they are ready. Sullivan said the academy will take place in November and volunteers should be fully self sufficient by spring of 2013.

Sammamish is currently staffed with 22 commissioned officers including one police chief, three sergeants, three detectives, two school resource officers and 13 patrol officers.

Those interested in attending Monday’s reserve officer seminar should RSVP with Sgt. Jessica Sullivan at 425-295-0776, or email Jessica.Sullivan@kingcounty.gov.