Detroit police unions vote to extend contracts, get raise
DETROIT (AP) -- The city of Detroit says three police unions have agreed to extend their contracts to 2020 in exchange for raises and other changes.
A 4 percent raise will take effect on January 1st, and starting pay for new officers will increase 13 percent to $36,000. Officers with college experience with also get additional raises.
The contracts now go to the Detroit City Council and the Financial Review Commission for their review.
In a statement Wednesday, the city says the largest police union approved the pact, 69 percent to 31 percent. Chief James Craig says it will attract and retain officers.
Mayor Mike Duggan says he next wants to improve the pay and benefits of firefighters and emergency medical technicians.