Detroit Cops Vote To Extend Contracts, Get 4 Percent Raise
DETROIT (WWJ/AP) - The city of Detroit says three police unions have agreed to extend their contracts to 2020 in exchange for raises and other changes.
A 4 percent raise will take effect on Jan. 1, and starting pay for new officers will increase 13 percent to $36,000. Officers with college experience with also get additional raises.
In a statement Wednesday, the city said the largest police union approved the pact, 69 percent to 31 percent.
While some cops say a 4 percent bump isn't nearly enough, Chief James Craig says the modest pay hike will help to attract and retain officers.
"I'm certainly excited that we're moving in the right direction," Craig told WWJ last week. "I've had a chance to talk to a number of officers, and they know that we need to do more."
"They want more and they deserve more," Craig said. "You've often hear me say we have some of the hardest working men and women in the county, in one of the toughest places to police."
The contracts now go to the Detroit City Council and the Financial Review Commission for their review.
Mayor Mike Duggan says he next wants to improve the pay and benefits of firefighters and emergency medical technicians.
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