Media OKs new cop contract after ‘tough’ negotiations
MEDIA » Police business was the highlight of council’s March meeting with awards, new hires and the approval of a new collective bargaining agreement.
Coming at the close of the agenda in Councilwoman Sayre Dixon’s report, the board approved the agreement of a fiveyear contract. The terms include increases of 3.23.8 percent with a 3.4 percent average. Officers will have an “opt out” option for benefits, and will receive 50 percent of the cost consideration in doing so. This is an increase from the prior 25 percent amount. According to the board, the concession still benefits the borough given the level of the health care plan in place.
The agreement will also offer a deferred retirement plan, giving officers a further option of how to schedule retirement pensions and the potential of a lump sum payment.
Currently the department has 15 full-time officers. The base salary is $86,756 which officers reach in the fourth year of employment. Salary starts at 70 percent and rises 10 percent annually until the top amount. Differentials include longevity, overtime and other contracted pay. Councilman Peter Williamson noted “there was a lot of effort” put into negotiations.
Regard for officers and the department as a whole was apparent as the meeting began with swearing in of two new part-time officers. Kyrstin Coale and Jenna Long took the oath of office administered by Mayor Bob McMahon. The two women were already very much in sync, mentioning they had worked together in the county’s Sheriff’s office for
four years. They were each applauded by friends and families.
Chief Marty Wusinich introduced Sgt. Steve Longbottom who had nominated and presented two commendations. Officer Dan Divito was commended for a drug arrest that grew out of a routine traffic stop. Officer Eric Gavin’s investigation of a “suspicious vehicle” after tipped by an Upper Providence officer apprehended a serial criminal. Both were cited for skill, professionalism and diligence in performing their jobs.
Bob Valenti represented Nativity BVM Knights of Columbus for the organization’s annual police awards. They were established by the late Tom Flynn more than two decades ago to recognize outstanding work inside the department, with selections coming from personnel.
Gavin received the Supervisor of the Year Award. “You are only as good as the people you work with who need only a little direction,” Gavin said.
The Tom Flynn Memorial Officer of the Year Award was presented to Officer Richie Leicht.
“Anyone of us could be up here. The department starts at the top with great leadership,” Leicht said with a nod to Wusinich. “I’d like to thank council and especially the mayor for all the support they give us.”
With a reference to the bargaining agreement yet to come in the meeting, Leicht said, “The negotiations were tough. The residents should know they are well served by this council.”
As is routinely the case, awardees and swearing in of new officers bring out not only families and friends, but the support of other department members and those from neighboring municipalities.