LISBON — Officials from Lisbon and Sabattus are considering combining their police forces to save money, Town Manager Steve Eldridge said Thursday.

“As we look toward the future and the way the economy is at this time, we must look at what the cost of this service will be in the next five to 10 years,” he said. “Can we eliminate duplication of services and also enhance the coverage that both communities are asking for? We are convinced that we can.”

The towns began exploring the possibility of consolidation after the retirement of longtime Sabattus Chief Thomas Fales. Lisbon Chief David Brooks and Fales embraced the concept and said it would benefit both communities, Eldridge said.

Recently, Sabattus Town Manager Rick Bates and Eldridge were given the green light by selectmen and councilors in their respective towns to start developing a plan. Both managers said they believe there are savings to be found immediately and long term.

The two towns share the services of Animal Control Officer Jeff Cooper, and that is working well, Eldridge said.