Fort Worth, Police Association sign agreement

by PegNews wire

Two years ago, voters gave the Fort Worth Police Officers Association (POA) the go ahead to negotiate areas previously governed by state civil service laws — matters such as salary increases, hiring procedures and disciplinary actions.

Last week, the City Council and the POA made history, signing Fort Worth’s first Meet and Confer Agreement. Effective through Sept. 30, 2012, the agreement overrides any conflicting state or local law.

The agreement specifically addresses strikes, work slowdowns and lockouts by police officers. They’re prohibited, giving Fort Worth residents the peace of mind that public safety remains one of council’s top priorities.

And, if, the city can’t financially meet its end of the bargain, the agreement can be canceled. Likewise, if voters turn down the half-cent sales tax that supports the Crime Control Prevention District, pay increases outlined in the agreement can be suspended.

Highlights of the agreement are:

Salary Increases

Officers get a 3 percent pay raise retroactive to the beginning of the city’s current fiscal year, a 3 percent increase in fiscal 2009-10, 3.5 percent in 2010-11 and 3.25 in 2011-12. “Step” raises or longevity is changed so that officers reach maximum pay sooner — 16 years vs. 20.

Hiring Procedures

New hiring procedures outlined in the agreement include entry-level testing and points for military service, education and Fort Worth residency.

Disciplinary Actions

Officers indicted for a felony or officially charged with a Class A or B misdemeanor, may be suspended temporarily — with or without pay — for 45 days, up from the previous 15. Officers convicted of felonies automatically are fired.

New Rank

The agreement creates the new rank of major between the classifications of captain and deputy chief. Promotions to major are exempt from competitive examination and, instead, are made at the discretion of the police chief. Majors also may be demoted at the chief’s discretion.

Physical Fitness

All police officers hired on or after Oct. 1, 2009, have to pass an annual mandatory fitness test. Current officers can choose to participate and earn a $300 bonus if they pass. The first bonus will be paid in September 2010.

Discrimination Prohibition

Discrimination based on POA membership or because of race, color, national origin, religion or creed, age, sex or gender, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or disability or handicap is prohibited.

Other

Officers can donate a portion of their leave time to allow POA officers time off for association business.

Source: The City of Fort Worth