Colleyville Council reviews $50,000 officer pay increase options and retention strategies

Colleyville officials are considering how to allocate a $50,000 budget surplus aimed at enhancing police officer compensation during the recent CCCPD Board Meeting. The discussions centered around two primary options: increasing entry-level officer pay or distributing a one-time bonus to all officers.

The first option proposes using the funds to raise the entry-level officer salary to $80,072, a 2.2% increase that aligns with findings from a recent compensation study. This adjustment aims to address pay compression issues and position Colleyville competitively among neighboring cities. The second option suggests distributing the $50,000 as a one-time bonus, which would equate to approximately $17.50 per officer.

While some board members expressed support for the first option, emphasizing its potential to attract and retain talent, others raised concerns about fairness. One member highlighted the importance of recognizing all city employees, not just police officers, in any compensation adjustments. This sentiment reflects a broader commitment to equity across city departments, as all employees contribute to the community's well-being.

The conversation also touched on the challenges of officer retention, with members acknowledging that financial incentives alone may not solve the issue. Factors such as job satisfaction and the nature of police work in Colleyville were discussed, with some noting that a lack of action in the community could lead to dissatisfaction among officers.

As the board deliberates, the focus remains on finding a solution that balances the needs of the police department with the overall fairness to all city employees. The decision on how to utilize the $50,000 will have lasting implications for officer morale and community safety, making it a critical topic for the Colleyville community.