CMPD officers say health insurance costs too much

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — For months, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department has been ramping up its hiring, offering incentives to experienced officers.

Police officials say the top gripe officers have is their health insurance.

"I've been on the board for 15 years and I've never seen it this bad where officers are coming complaining to us,” said Officer Mark Michalec, the president of the local Fraternal Order of Police.

Officers said the problem with insurance is that it cost too much and the deductibles are too high.

"It's tough for our people because that's a hit; those benefits matter,” police Chief Kerr Putney said.

Officers have five health insurance plans to choose from and they vary in cost.

Michalec said he pays about $400 each month for his wife and two kids.

One of the agencies Charlotte competes with for talent is the Raleigh Police Department where officers have free dental, medical and life insurance.

Putney said he is negotiation with the city manager to work on insurance conditions.

"I'm trying to be patient as that progress moves along, but our people really want some resolution and I think they are going to get it,” Putney said.

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