Support Wichita Police

Police in Wichita deserve a pay raise and a fair arbitration process.    A federal fact-finder has recommended  a 3.5 percent increase for our police who are the lowest paid in comparable cities.  Grievances are currently judged by the city manager.  An independent arbitrate, as the fact finder urges, would be fairer.  Please send an email to Mayor Carlos Mayans and the city council.  Please add your own thoughts.

Sample Letter for Campaign

Subject: Be fair to our police

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

I urge you to support our fine police by following the recommendations of the federal fact-finder.

When our budget has millions for giveaways to exercise clubs and sports arenas, but can't find the dollars to pay our front-line public servants something is wrong.

Fair pay for our police should be a top priority of city government.

It is only fair that the most severe grievances be decided by an outside, impartial third party rather than by the city manager. This would create an incentive for both sides to reach agreement for all kinds of grievances.

Sincerely,

Campaign Launched:
September 03, 2004


Background Information

Policepay.net found that Wichita's officer compensation ranks near the bottom-140th out of the nation's 200 largest cities.  Because of the pay gap, officer turnover is excessive.  Of 514 officers hired since 1994, 181 have left the department.

Recommendations from a report by federal arbitrator Ronald Iacovetta.

  • Compensation:  supports the union position of a 3.25 percent increase for 2004 and 2005.
  • Binding arbitration: The Fraternal Order of Police wants binding arbitration for grievance cases involving suspensions longer than 15 days, firings, demotions, and issues involving contract negotiations.
  • Uniforms:  The union wants the city to raise clothing allowances.
  • Retirement benefit: The union wants the city to allow retiring officers to retain their "duty weapon."