Police Union Strikes Deal for 9 Percent Increase

The Santa Barbara Police Officers Association (POA) struck a deal for city cops and other police employees to receive 9 percent in pay increases during the next three years. Negotiations between the POA and City Hall were uncommonly quiet, the first time in many years in which an impasse was not declared. Originally, the union sought a 12 percent increase, but it became apparent that wasn’t going to happen. On the other side of the bargaining table was interim chief John Crombach, for whom the union has high regard. And with new chief Lori Luhnow just taking over, union leaders were not inclined to push too hard. An officer fresh out of the academy will receive $138,731 in compensation under the new contract.