Raleigh officials urge budget increase for police salaries and headcount amid rising crime

The Raleigh City Council Public Comment Session on March 11, 2025, focused heavily on public safety and the need for significant changes in law enforcement funding and staffing. Community members expressed urgent concerns regarding rising crime rates in Raleigh, particularly in comparison to surrounding towns that have received high safety ratings.

One speaker highlighted a recent article from the News and Observer, which reported an increase in crime from February 2020 to February 2024. They emphasized that the Raleigh Police Department is currently under-resourced and called for bold action in the upcoming budget. The speaker urged the council to increase police salaries to the highest in the region and to add 400 officers over the next four to five years to better serve the growing population.

The speaker pointed out that the starting salary for a Raleigh police officer is $55,000, which is lower than the starting salaries in nearby towns like Cary and Apex. They noted that many officers leave Raleigh for better-paying positions shortly after training, which exacerbates the department's staffing issues. A public opinion poll indicated that public safety is a top concern for Raleigh residents, with 75% supporting a substantial pay increase for police officers.

Additionally, the speaker referenced a 2020 staffing study that recommended an increase of approximately 400 police personnel to meet community needs. They warned that insufficient resources lead to longer response times and fewer proactive patrols, which negatively impacts both residents and local businesses. Concerns about crime, particularly in downtown areas, were echoed by members of the Raleigh Merchant Association and the Raleigh Hospitality Alliance, who noted that crime affects customer experiences and business viability.

In closing, the speaker stressed that public safety is the city's most fundamental responsibility and urged the council to adopt a budget that prioritizes police staffing and compensation to ensure a safer future for Raleigh.

Another speaker, Cole McMullen, expressed support for firefighter separation allowances and suggested that other city employees performing dangerous tasks should also be considered for similar benefits. McMullen also praised the success of the "Bringing Neighbors Home" pilot initiative, highlighting its positive impact in a short period.

The discussions during the session underscored the community's pressing concerns about public safety and the need for strategic investments in law enforcement to enhance the quality of life in Raleigh.