Council backs 9% raise and step program for sworn officers; retention cited as rationale

Council member Tom Bagnell proposed and moved an amendment to the tentative budget ordinance to add a 9% across‑the‑board increase for sworn police officers and to implement a 7‑5‑3 step placement program as outlined by the Police Association. "With an amendment to the salary schedule for sworn police officers to include a 9% increase together with the 7 5 3 step program with placement as outlined in the proposal provided to council by the police association," Bagnell said while placing the amendment on the record.