Monday night’s approval of the city’s budget means pay raises for the first time in nearly a decade for Albuquerque police officers.
As part of the multi-million dollar budget, the Albuquerque Police Department was given $25.5 million. Half of that will be used for a new salary contract.
While the overall goal is to recruit officers, the budget also includes a $2,000 to $15,000 yearly pay raise for current officers based on years of service.
The police union says the contract isn’t perfect, but it’s a step in the right direction.
“We’re really striving to bring competitive pay to the city of Albuquerque because we’re tired of losing officers. We’re tired of having officers run out the back door,” said Shaun Willoughby, Albuquerque Police Union.
Officers will see their first increase go into effect in August.
