The trend continues to be one of success in recent police contract negotiations. 2006 promises to be a fruitful year for those going into contract negotiations. The State's economy is well, which is resulting in greater funds being available at the local level. Below are a few more contracts I was excited to negotiate.

Alhambra POA

With the ever escalating costs of medical insurance for retirees, APOA President Joe Flannagan made this issue a priority in recent contract negotiations. The most recent contract which expired in June of 2005 called for a 22% salary increase over four years and retiree medical in the amount of between $250 and $350 per month depending on years of service. Due to the salary increases negotiated in that contract, the APOA was in a position in the marketplace to focus on further retiree health benefits instead of salary. As such, the APOA agreed to a one year contract (expiring June of 2006). The primary benefit obtained in this contract involves the City funding a retiree medical trust managed by the APOA. The City, retroactive to July of 2005, will contribute $25,760 per month (equaling $415 per officer, per month). This trust fund will allow the APOA to provide retirees funds to pay for their retiree medical insurance. The one year contract also calls for an increase in the cafeteria plan for current employees of $100 and increases in special assignment pay, bilingual pay, and uniform allowance.

Azusa POA

Azusa POA, led by its President, Peter Hoh, was able to successfully maintain their position in the marketplace. Over significant reluctance by the City, the Azusa Police Officers Association desired to maintain its current compensation position of number one in the San Gabriel Valley (eastern Los Angeles County). After lengthy negotiations the City ultimately agreed to maintain its officers at the number one position, calling for a two year contract of 3% each year. Additionally, the POA negotiated a switch from the 4/10 schedule to a 3/12½ schedule.

Buena Park PA

Buena Park Police Association saw a significant turn around in its current and future negotiations thanks to the efforts of its President, David Martinez. Martinez, upon becoming Association President in 2005 decided the Association had to become a little more aggressive in its representation of its members, especially at the negotiating table. Prior negotiations had left Buena Park well behind the marketplace in Orange County.

To effectuate his plan, Martinez switched law firms to Lackie & Dammeier and began to build a significant political action fund, as approved by the membership. The City saw these actions by the Police Association and had a much more realistic approach to negotiations. In fact, without even having a formal negotiation meeting, the City and Police Association reached an agreement calling for a 10% salary increase over two years (5% each year), a cafeteria plan increase of $250, and a signing bonus of $5,500 for each Police Association member.

As 2006 rolls on I will be updating you on the conclusions of the many negotiation tables I am currently at.

About the author, Dieter C. Dammeier is an LDF Panel Attorney, partner, and chief