Azusa POA following its long tradition of doing well at the bargaining table did not let the bad economy tarnish this trend.  Led by its President Terry Smith and Vice President, Peter Hoh, like Covina, Azusa was able to convert the trend of 3@55 for new hires into some positive gains at the table.  As part of a five year deal, an added 5% pay step was added for Senior Officers (those with 9 years of service) in year one, impacting nearly one-half of the membership.  Years two through four call for a 2.5% increase each year, with year five calling for a 3% final increase.  Included in the deal is the continued escalator for medical insurance, currently set at a City contribution of $1,350 along with a $50 increase in the uniform allowance.

            As you can see, while times are still tight, there are still cities out there that are stepping up to the plate to prioritize public safety.  While it is still not the best climate to be negotiating in, there are still decent deals to be had with the right amount of effort put in by the association as well exemplified by the above police associations.