During a recent government meeting, the president of the Gulf Police Officers Association (GPOA) expressed significant concerns regarding a newly established code enforcement supervisor position that offers a salary exceeding that of top sergeants in the police department. The president emphasized that this decision raises serious questions about the city’s commitment to public safety and the value placed on law enforcement roles.

The GPOA president highlighted the critical responsibilities of police sergeants, who manage multiple officers and specialized units while ensuring community safety in high-pressure situations. He argued that the compensation for such vital roles should reflect the seriousness of their duties, especially in light of the recent loss of five officers from the department and the potential for further departures.

The president pointed out that the creation of a supervisory role overseeing a single employee, which commands a higher salary than that of sergeants, undermines the contributions of law enforcement personnel and sends a discouraging message to officers dedicated to protecting the community. He noted that morale within the department is suffering, which could impact officer retention.

In closing, the GPOA expressed a desire to work collaboratively with the city council and city manager to address these compensation disparities and ensure that all city roles are valued appropriately in relation to their responsibilities. The association remains committed to finding a solution that reflects the importance of law enforcement in maintaining community safety.