ST. LOUIS — The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department (SLMPD) and the St. Louis Police Officers’ Association (SLPOA) finalized and signed a new collective bargaining agreement on Friday that includes a 7% pay raise for police officers and sergeants, which raises the starting salary for new police officers.
Under the finalized agreement, an officer with two years of service will earn $64,124, up from $59,956, reflecting a meaningful investment in the men and women who serve the City of St. Louis. The boost in salary will be allocated through SLMPD’s operating budget – no additional funding from the City of St. Louis has been requested beyond what is required under state law.
“This agreement is an investment in public safety and in the dedicated police officers who serve our community every day,” said St. Louis Board of Police Commissioners President Chris Saracino. “By strengthening compensation and remaining fiscally responsible, we are reinforcing the SLMPD and supporting the long-term safety and stability of our entire region.”
Negotiations between the SLMPD and SLPOA began in September. The tentative agreement was sent to the SLPOA on Monday after being approved by the Board of Police Commissioners in Executive Session. The finalized agreement reflects months of collaborative discussions focused on recruitment and retention.
Chief Robert Tracy said the agreement supports the department’s ongoing public safety mission.
“Our officers and sergeants perform demanding work under challenging conditions, and this agreement recognizes their professionalism and commitment,” said Chief Tracy. “Competitive pay is essential to attracting and retaining high-quality officers and ensuring we continue to advance safety across the City of St. Louis.”
St. Louis Police Officers’ Association President Martin Garcia emphasized the importance of the agreement for officers and their families.
“This signed agreement reflects productive negotiations and mutual respect between the union, the Board and the Chief,” said Garcia. “Our members appreciate their determination to take steps to bring officer salaries and working conditions in line with other agencies in the region.”
The newly signed collective bargaining agreement takes effect immediately.
Compensation for all SLMPD employees, both commissioned and professional staff, is a top priority for the Board. The Board will move forward with plans to begin negotiations with professional staff and commanders to address compensation in a thoughtful and equitable manner.
For those interested in joining the ranks of the SLMPD, please visit SLMPDrecruit.org.
