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Parlier Measure Q oversight committee reports on police salaries and urges business growth to expand tax base
Summary
The Measure Q oversight committee reported that average police officer compensation with benefits is above $90,000 per year and recommended the city pursue economic development and a business plan to broaden Parlier’s tax base.
Fernando Banuelos, a member of Parlier’s Measure Q oversight committee, presented the committee’s findings Thursday, describing committee efforts to review police department spending and salaries.
Banuelos told the council the committee found the “average salary with benefits of the police officers is over $90,000 per year.” He said the committee recognizes the need for competitive pay to retain officers but also noted concerns about the burden on older taxpayers.
Why it matters: Committee members and councilors described Measure Q as created to provide local support for policing and public safety. The oversight committee’s role is to monitor that Measure Q funding is spent consistent with voter intent; Banuelos and others said the committee will examine salary levels, hiring results and whether funds are being spent on the programs voters approved.
Key points and recommendations: - Pay and retention: The committee reported Parlier’s officer pay is now competitive and noted historical challenges retaining officers when pay lagged other jurisdictions. Banuelos said the city “needs these salaries to maintain competitiveness.” - Tax base concerns: The committee urged city leadership to adopt a business plan and pursue industry and housing to improve the city’s tax base and reduce long‑term reliance on bonds and measures. - Oversight and reporting: Council members praised the volunteer oversight committee and asked it to expand future reports to include spending detail, hiring metrics and program outcomes so the council and public can confirm funds are used for the purposes voters approved.
Council reaction: Council members thanked the committee, asked for more detailed, periodic summaries and encouraged outreach so the oversight committee can report specific expenditure categories and recommendations at future meetings.
Ending: The committee and council agreed the oversight role will continue; Banuelos said future committee reports will include a synopsis of expenditures and recommendations to ensure Measure Q funds meet voter expectations.
