CMPD gets last chance to raise issue about pay increase

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department officers pushed, once again, for better pay at Monday night’s packed Charlotte City Council meeting at the Government Center in uptown.

FOP asks Charlotte leaders for 15 percent pay raise for CMPD officers

It was the last time the council and City Manager Marcus Jones will hear from the officers before Jones presents his budget on May 7.

CMPD is requesting several changes, including a 15 percent pay raise, the reinstatement of retirement health insurance and a reduction in the number of steps it takes to receive top salary.

Officers issued a stern warning Monday night that many people were not happy and will likely leave if the council doesn't improve the situation.

[READ MORE: CMPD requested pay raise could cost $21.8M in taxpayers' money]

Community members also pleaded to the council to follow through on CMPD's requests.

“You have a great opportunity to show these officers that you truly appreciate the work they do every day,” said Henry Rozell, with CMPD. “So when you make your decision next month, please ask what it would take you to put on a bulletproof vest.”

“No one wins if we're not safe. We need to be competitive,” CMPD supporter Lindsay Brown said.

CMPD Chief Kerr Putney was not present but has previously said he supports the requests.

City officials said those changes would cost tens of millions of dollars.

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