Omaha City Council approves police pay raise to address staffing crisis

In the heart of Omaha's city hall, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as the City Council convened on April 22, 2025, to address pressing issues impacting public safety and city governance. Among the key discussions was a proposed amendment to the collective bargaining agreement with the Omaha Police Officers Association (OPOA), aimed at tackling a significant staffing crisis within the police department.

As the meeting unfolded, Deputy City Attorney Bernardinaboche presented a comprehensive plan designed to enhance officer recruitment and retention. With the Omaha Police Department currently operating at a 14% staffing deficit, the urgency of the proposal was palpable. The plan includes a pay increase for top officers, ensuring that Omaha remains competitive with other law enforcement agencies in Nebraska. The goal is to position Omaha as the highest-paying police department in the state, a status that is increasingly at risk as neighboring agencies raise their salaries.

Justin Smith, treasurer of the OPOA, echoed the sentiments of urgency, highlighting the challenges faced by law enforcement in a changing societal landscape. He noted that by 2028, nearly half of the current officers would be eligible for retirement, further exacerbating the staffing crisis. Smith emphasized the importance of investing in public safety and attracting qualified candidates to the force, stating, “This proposal recognizes that Omaha not only deals with the most violent situations but also sets a standard that Omaha is and will be the premier law enforcement agency in the state.”

The council also heard from opponents of the proposal, who raised concerns about the adequacy of training and resources for officers. Donnie R. Johnson, representing the Johnson Question Foundation, argued that while increased pay is beneficial, it should not overshadow the need for improved training and updated equipment. Similarly, Kyle Ross, a concerned citizen, suggested that enhancing working conditions for officers could lead to better outcomes in community safety.

Despite the mixed reactions, the council moved forward with the public hearing, closing discussions on the proposed amendments. The personnel board had recommended approval, and the administration expressed confidence that the changes would help stabilize the police force and improve public safety in Omaha.

As the meeting concluded, the implications of the council's decisions loomed large. With the staffing crisis in law enforcement at the forefront, the city’s commitment to addressing these challenges will be crucial in shaping the future of public safety in Omaha. The council's actions in the coming weeks will determine whether these proposals will take effect, potentially setting a new standard for law enforcement in Nebraska.