SIOUX FALLS, SD (KELO AM) The South Dakota Department of Labor has sided with the City of Sioux Falls in its long contract dispute with city police officers.
The cops rejected the city's final offer of pay increases of 1.5 percent in 2017 and 2018, so Labor held a fact-finding hearing.
James Marsh, Division Director at Labor, cited in his report in favor of the city, released Friday, that sales tax revenues are projecting down, there's been no inflation in property taxes, and the city should maintain its 25 percent reserve level.
Thomas Wilka, attorney for the Fraternal Order of Police has said that 3 percent increases are more typical and that the city's lower offer would impact the ability to recruit and retain qualified police officers. KELO Radio contacted Wilka for reaction to the state fact-finder's decision, but he had not responded before this story was posted.
- The current labor agreement between police and the City expires on December 31st and both sides are hoping to have deal worked out before the end-of-the year deadline.
"The whole goal of the FOP during the negotiation was to enhance the ability recruit and retain people," said Thomas Wilka, attorney for the FOP.
The Fraternal Order of Police and the City of Sioux Falls have been holding several bargaining sessions trying to put together a labor agreement able to satisfy both sides.
After seven meetings between the two, the City put forward what they say is their final offer for a two year agreement that includes a one-point-five percent annual wage increase.
"Typically a 3%t annual increase are more common both for public employees and for private employees in Sioux Falls," added Wilka.
The city says the administrative process has concluded so it will seek to implement the terms of the offer for the approximately 220 police personnel represented by the Fraternal Order of Police. City Council must still approve the contract.
The city wants to point out that police officers and sergeants have the opportunity to receive raises in addition to the 1.5 percent cost-of-living adjustments as well. Under the terms of the contract, FOP members can also receive step increases