Medina's Police Unions Secure Pay Raise Deal
Medina, Ohio is making significant strides in employee compensation. The city's finance committee has approved a tentative deal with patrol and communications officers, covering a three-year contract aimed at enhancing pay for these essential workers.
Key Highlights of the Agreement
- 2026: 4% pay increase
- 2027: 4% pay increase
- 2028: 3% pay increase
Mayor Dennis Hanwell shared that this agreement was presented to the council in a private session. The council now has 30 days to vote on it, with a special meeting scheduled for January 6 to discuss it further.
Council President's Perspective
Council President John Coyne emphasized the importance of fair pay across all city employees. He noted that the city plans for 2% raises annually. However, the proposed agreement exceeds this, adding an extra $1.8 million to the budget. This extra amount is crucial as expenses tend to outpace revenue.
Coyne highlighted the city's growing income tax revenue, which has reached $21 million. This is a significant jump from the $4 million he saw when he first started on the council. The mayor clarified that the $1.8 million is for all city employee pay increases, not just the police unions.
Sergeants' Union Update
Meanwhile, the Sergeants' union is heading to fact-finding. This process will help determine a fair agreement for them. The city's approach shows a commitment to balancing fair pay with financial planning.
