The Westminster Police Officers' Association was established to ensure the protection of peace officer rights, to achieve fair compensation and benefits for duties performed, to address department morale issues, and to support the Westminster community through sponsorships, donations, and events.
WPOA CONCESSIONS TO ASSIST CITY DEFICIT
- This fiscal year, 5 sworn Police Officer positions have been eliminated through attrition
- The number of sworn Police Officers is currently 88 (down from a high of 105)
- 14 sworn Police Officer positions have been eliminated since 2008
- The overall police budget has been reduced by 15% in the last 5 years equaling a loss of just under 4.5 million.
- 15 civilian non-sworn positions have been eliminated, 7 proposed through layoffs
- Other savings through the loss of overtime, part time wages, general equipment, safety equipment, and training.
The Westminster Police Department recognizes that it is the largest portion of the general fund and as such, it has taken the lead in addressing the current fiscal crisis.
WPOA RECENT CONTRACT CONCESSIONS
June 2010 - 2011 Contract
- No Salary Increase
- Eliminated ability to cash out vacation time – Saved city minimum $190,000 annually
- Revised Overtime Definition - Saved city minimum $90,000 annually
- Eliminated Lieutenant Overtime – Saved city minimum $60,000 annually
- Reduced Comp Time account – Saved city minimum $92,000 annually
- Unpaid Lunch – Saved city minimum of $10,000 annually
- Reduced retiree medical benefits for new employees in half
June 2011 - 2014 Contract
- No Salary Increase
- Pension Reform for New Hires: Sworn 2% @ 50 Formula, Non-sworn 2% @ 60 (Second city in county to accept reform)
- Pension Reform: Final compensation based on 36 months of employment not 12 to avoid spiking
- Extended Continuous Meritorious Service Pay by an additional 5 years to achieve this benefit
- Retirement Contribution (PERS):
-- New employees pay full 9% contribution.
-- Current Employees pay 5% immediate contribution and 6% by end of contract -- Saved the city minimum $500,000 annually
