Dearborn Heights council discusses police contract negotiations amid budget concerns

Dearborn Heights city officials faced intense scrutiny during a recent study session as concerns over a contentious police contract negotiation came to light. The meeting, held on April 23, 2025, revealed significant financial implications for the city, with council members expressing doubts about the affordability of the contract and the negotiation process itself.

Key discussions centered around the city’s financial capacity to support the proposed contract, which includes substantial salary increases and retroactive pay for police officers. Council members voiced their concerns, with one stating, “The city could not afford this,” highlighting a projected deficit of $2.7 million. The urgency of the situation was underscored by the potential for the city to face bankruptcy if the budget was approved as is.

The negotiations, which began in July 2024 and culminated in a ratified contract by December, were criticized for lacking transparency and proper representation. Council members questioned the absence of key administrative figures during negotiations, suggesting that the city may have negotiated in bad faith. One council member described the situation as “embarrassing,” emphasizing the need for experienced leadership in the Human Resources department to handle such critical negotiations effectively.

The contract itself was described as containing “significant concessions” from the police union, yet council members were left wondering what the city gained from the agreement. Discussions revealed that the contract included changes to minimum staffing and sick time usage, aimed at reducing overtime costs, but many felt these adjustments did not justify the financial burden.

Public comments echoed the council's frustrations, with residents expressing their support for the police department and calling for accountability from city leadership. One resident urged the council to take action against the mayor for perceived negligence in handling the negotiations.

As the city moves forward, mediation has been scheduled to address the ongoing disputes surrounding the contract. The council remains committed to ensuring that the police department is adequately funded while navigating the complex financial landscape of Dearborn Heights. The outcome of these negotiations will be crucial in determining the future of public safety and fiscal responsibility in the community.