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Dubuque police outline staffing shortfalls, targeted raises and new retention packages in FY27 budget hearing
Summary
Assistant Chief Joe Messerich and Police Chief Jensen told the council the department is authorized for 109 sworn officers but is staffing 99, and proposed improvement packages including $40,000 for professional development and $11,400 to sustain officer wellness checks after a two‑year grant expires.
Assistant Chief Joe Messerich presented the Dubuque Police Department’s fiscal 2027 requests Tuesday, telling the City Council the department is authorized for 109 sworn positions but currently has 99 officers on staff, leaving 10 vacancies.
Messerich said the department negotiated a new contract in FY24 that expanded pay steps and this year proposes a 4% across‑the‑board raise with larger increases for senior steps to reach a target “50th percentile” in regional pay comparisons. He said the city will reopen contract talks for FY28 and FY29 to remain competitive.
The department asked for several improvement packages aimed at retention and…
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