Peoria to spend millions to boost police officers’ pay

PEORIA (25News Now) - Peoria Police officers have a new union contract with raises the city manager said will compete with salaries offered in comparable cities, and to increase pay for new officers.

Without comment, the city council voted unanimously Tuesday night for a three-year deal that will cost the city government an extra $1.4 million the first year and $3.3 million more for the entire three years, said City Manager Patrick Urich.

All officers will get a minimum 5% pay increase the first year, a 4% raise the second year and a 3% pay hike the final year of the deal.

Urich said the starting salary for officers just out of the police academy in 2024 was $67,595. By 2027, the starting salary will be $80,340, a 17% increase.

In an effort to retain current officers, the contract also rewards longevity with 2% added to base pay for officers working five years, 4% more for officers with 10 years of service, 6% extra for 15 years of service, and 8% more for officers working 20 years.

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