Oconomowoc police officers are set to see pay increases and other benefits over the next three years as part of a newly approved contract.
According to the Oconomowoc Enterprise, Police Chief James Pfister announced the agreement during a Common Council meeting, highlighting a series of changes aimed at supporting the city’s officers.
The 2024-2026 contract includes annual pay raises: a 4% increase for 2024, followed by a 5% raise in 2025 and another 5% in 2026, both split throughout the year. Additionally, officers’ clothing allowance will rise from $600 in 2023 to $750 in 2024, and then to $900 in 2025 and 2026.
Beyond pay adjustments, other changes will impact officer benefits and policies. The probation period for new hires will extend from 12 to 18 months, while comp time will no longer carry over into the new year. Instead, officers will need to use their time or receive a payout. To compensate, officers will receive an additional holiday, bringing their total to 11 per year.
“I think the contract was well-negotiated,” said Alderman Matt Rosek during the meeting. “(We) have to keep these folks well paid; they have a tough job.”
The contract was approved unanimously by the council, with Aldermen Chris Douglas and Jennifer Aultman Kloth absent from the vote. These updates reflect Oconomowoc’s commitment to ensuring fair compensation for officers while addressing workplace policies to support their demanding roles.
This development underscores the importance of maintaining competitive pay and benefits for law enforcement professionals, who are crucial to the safety and well-being of the community.
