Today, the Council approved a new pay plan for the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) that includes comprehensive raises for most officers. The plan was first approved on Oct. 10, 2017, at a meeting of the New Orleans Civil Service Commission.
The Council adopted a series of motions relative to the new plan, which proposes a 10 percent raise in base pay for entry-level police officers, an additional 10 percent raise for detectives, and 10 percent raises for sergeants and lieutenants. Additionally, it replaces the current structure, which utilizes pay steps for Police Officer I, II, III and IV, with the creation of a "senior police officer" position.
This year, it was reported that the department was staffed at more than 300 less its size in 2010. These measures will allow the NOPD to be more effective in keeping the residents of New Orleans safe through retaining its current officers and attracting more men and women to the department.
In light of the recent death of Officer Marcus McNeil, the entire Council offered full support and sincere gratitude toward Chief Michael Harrison, who was present to advocate on behalf of the plan, and the entire NOPD.
"Regardless of any bad press or negative comments that may be out there, we have to say, overwhelmingly, that the men and women of the NOPD handle large crowds and life-threatening situations better than any other department in the world," said Councilmember-At-Large Jason Williams. "This classified pay plan is the entire City and government's way of saying thank you for the incredible work you do each and every day and the tremendous sacrifices you've made on behalf of the people of New Orleans."