Greenwich officials reject funding for Silver Shield police contract despite committee support

The Greenwich Representative Town Meeting recently faced a pivotal decision regarding the labor contract for the town's police officers, known as the Silver Shield agreement. During the meeting on March 10, 2025, members voted on whether to reject the funding necessary to implement the terms of this collective bargaining agreement, which spans fiscal years 2024 to 2027.

The resolution to reject the contract was met with significant opposition from various committees. The Labor Contracts Committee, led by Josh Brown, voted unanimously against the rejection, expressing confidence in the contract's provisions, which include salary adjustments and changes to healthcare contributions. The committee highlighted a gradual increase in employee contributions to healthcare, reaching 16% by the third year, alongside stipends averaging $500.

The Budget Overview Committee also weighed in, voting 12-0 to accept the contract. Chairman James Waters noted the contract's total cost of approximately $93 million over three years and emphasized that the union had already ratified the agreement. He pointed out that the town is beginning to see benefits from moving away from a defined benefit plan for police personnel.

The Finance Committee echoed these sentiments, voting 12-0 against the rejection. Chairman Greg Zorthian praised the contract for maintaining wage increases below 3% annually, a notable achievement compared to other police contracts in Connecticut.

Despite the strong support from the committees, the meeting revealed a lack of public engagement, with no residents stepping forward to voice their opinions during the debate. As the town moves forward, the implications of this contract will be closely monitored, particularly regarding its financial impact and the ongoing relationship between the town and its police force. The next steps will involve implementing the contract as approved, ensuring that the terms are effectively communicated and executed.