Austin City Council Considers $218 Million Police Contract Amid Positive Financial Forecast

Austin City Council Reviews New Police Contract Proposal Amid Improved Financial Outlook

The City Council of Austin gathered on Tuesday to discuss a proposed police contract that could cost taxpayers $218 million over the next five years. This discussion comes on the heels of a more promising financial forecast presented by city budget staff, displaying a better economic situation than earlier predictions had suggested.

Budget Officer’s Positive Report

At the work session held on Tuesday, Budget Officer Kerri Lang addressed the Council, stating that earlier fears of a $60 million budget deficit by 2029 have been lifted. Lang noted that city revenues have improved significantly, eliminating worries about financial deficits. She assured the Council that the budget adopted for 2025—which took effect on October 1—already incorporated funds for the proposed police contract and the overall five-year financial forecast.

While the contract’s price is anticipated to exceed the budget by $2 million, Lang expressed confidence that this addition would not disrupt financial stability. Lang stated, “There is a minimal impact with the additional dollars that are included in the contract.” Moreover, if the contract gets approved, it will not necessitate a tax rate election, though the Council could still choose that path if they deem it necessary.

Details of the Proposed Contract

The tentative agreement between the city and the Austin Police Association includes substantial pay increases for officers: an 8 percent raise this year, followed by 6 percent in 2026, 5 percent in both 2027 and 2028, and another 4 percent in 2029. This comes in light of the fact that Austin police have been working without a contract since March 2023, amidst challenges in recruiting and retaining officers.

Concerns from City Employees Union

However, this financial commitment has not gone without criticism. The city’s employees union, AFSCME 1624, voiced reservations regarding the transparency and equity tied to the $218 million contract. In an October 1 statement, they said, “While we support competitive wages for our police officers, we must also address the needs of essential services that keep our city running.”

In response to the proposed contract, Council Members expressed their concerns about how these costs could affect funding for other important public safety initiatives and the overall workforce.

Support from Community and Business Representatives

Despite the criticism, a significant number of community representatives and businesses showed robust support for the proposed agreement. Members of the Austin Apartment Association highlighted concerns from tenants regarding safety issues such as assaults and thefts, pointing to a pressing need for improved police presence.

Archbishop Sterling Lands II, a longtime resident in the area, urged the Council to approve the agreement, suggesting that moves to defund the police were misguided. He emphasized that the contract is a “step in the right direction” towards enhancing public safety.

Trey Salinas, representing the Austin Chamber of Commerce, reinforced the notion that this contract aligns with the will of voters who approved Proposition A, which focused on strengthening police oversight. Salinas stated, “This agreement is groundbreaking for changes to police oversight and it values and prioritizes public safety.”

Remaining Skepticism

Despite the support for the contract, some advocates for police transparency still expressed skepticism. Kathy Mitchell from Equity Action questioned the clarity of the language concerning an existing internal records system, often referred to as the “G file.” She called for clearer definitions regarding the handling of past misconduct allegations. Conversely, Chas Moore of the Austin Justice Coalition pointed out that discussions about safety often overlook the risks posed by certain officers highlighting a broader conversation still needed.

Overall, while the proposed contract appears to take a promising stand for the police force in Austin, questions still linger regarding its implications for the city’s budget and the treatment of its other essential services. The City Council is set to vote on the contract on October 24, which could shape the future of public safety funding in the city.