WATERTOWN, N.Y. -- Watertown police officers may negotiate to work longer shifts this upcoming year.

A contract approved by the City of Watertown Monday night for its police officers allows discussions about potential 12 hour shifts. Right now, city officers work eight hour shifts with two consecutive days off.

City leaders and police officers will now form a joint commission to begin exploring the options. This approved contract will also give officers, detectives and sergeants a two percent salary increase for each of the next two years, and a flat increase of about $700 for lieutenants per year. Stipends for field training officers, co-pays for health insurance, and longevity pay will see increases as well.