Police Chief Empathizes with Officers, Council Members over Contract Decision

Following South Pasadena City Council's decision to grant a 2 percent pay bump to police officers, who'd once hoped and held out for for 5 percent, Police Chief Art Miller said he understood both sides. 
 
"I feel bad for officers and at the same time I understand what the position of the council is,'' Miller said outside City Hall, after Thursday's special meeting. He added that he wants residents in South Pasadena to know that despite their disappointment, officers will rise to the occasion any time they're needed for public service in the city. 

A months-long battle over the Police Officers Association members' current contract ended with the council's unanimous vote to offer a 2 percent salary bump, which is short of the 5 percent the POA asked for. Council members pointed out they're in a tough spot because, fiscally, if they pour more money into salaries and benefits, it could leave staff and officials vulnerable if something catastrophic happened within South Pasadena.

That contract expired Sunday, so a new round of negotiations for the next contract could begin at any point — and council members encouraged the parties to return to the negotiating table sooner rather than later. 

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