'We are in a sinking ship': SLC police officers express concerns amid salary debate
(KUTV) — In an unexpected move, a handful of officers from the Salt Lake Police Department spoke for roughly 20 minutes during Tuesday night’s meeting, arguing for more pay.
"I believe we have the experience here that no other officers in the state have," one officer told council members. "Some of us feel like we are in a sinking ship; please save us."
It’s an on-going debate over salary negotiations.
"We are the capital of the state of Utah," said Officer John Fitismanu from the Salt Lake City Police Department. "Our wage and benefits package look like a 2-year-old wrote it with a crayon."
On Wednesday morning, the Salt Lake City police associate was vocal on social media detailing the meeting. They encouraged neighbors to post signs in their front lawn supporting increase pay.
This follows a passionate plea from the union president.
Last week the police association went public on Facebook expressing concerns over wage.
"Attracting and retaining qualified applicants has become most tricky,” the post said.
Last night, at least five members of the police department spoke during the public comment portion of the meeting.
After the speeches, council moved on with the rest of their meeting with regard to what was said. However, last week the chairmen sent 2News a statement saying in part they cannot comment in the midst of a negotiations, according to city code.
The national salary average for an officer is about $63,000; whereas Utah comes in just over $52,000.
The mayor says once they make a deal with the department, the full council will take a vote on the deal during the city budget discussions this summer.
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