Racine Finance & Personnel Committee unanimously passes agreement to increase wage, benefits of police officers

 

RACINE, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Monday, March 13, the Racine Common Council Finance & Personnel Committee unanimously voted and passed a $3.5 million contract to increase wage and benefits of Racine County police officers.

The one-time contract would span four years.

Law enforcement agents in Racine County said the contract will help them recruit and retain officers.

"We can't take much more bleeding of our personnel at this point," said Sergeant Kristi Wilcox with the Racine Police Department.

Wilcox said the proposed contract will help the department manage their current officers, who have felt the effects of having to work overtime due to the department being understaffed.

"They're tired, they need some time off, just for their mental health," said Wilcox.

The contract came after lengthy discussion between the Racine Police Association (RPA) and the city.

"Even though this has taken a long time, I think it is proof that unions and collective bargaining can work, should work, and are really in the best interest of Wisconsin residents," said Cory Mason, mayor of Racine.

The contract includes wage increases, updates to police health care, leave of absence for college education and additional paid holiday.

"With this package, we will be able to recruit from other places and make this a place that really retains the officers that are here," said Mason.

The mayor went on to say the proposed contract has the potential to set the stage for law enforcement across the Badger State.

"This will be one of the best paid police departments in the state of Wisconsin, with this agreement moving forward."

Members of the RPA still need to vote on the contact.

After the RPA votes, it will then be presented to the entire Racine Common Council for approval.

That vote is slated to take place, Tuesday, March 21.