AUDIT & ASSESSMENT
of the
COLUMBUS POLICE DEPARTMENT
OFFICER PAY AND ALLOWANCES
Observations -
At the present time officers commence work in the department at a pay scale of $24,000.00 to start. At six months officers can receive an increase to $25,700.00, and at one year can be at $26,600.00. This is below the local average for law enforcement officers, as compared to other law enforcement departments. Low pay and substandard benefits will influence recruitment and retention of qualified officers. The lack of pay, however, should never be an excuse for poor performance in a police organization.
Recommendation -
An analysis should be conducted to compare Columbus officer's pay and allowances to other departments in the immediate area. Further, a step pay raise program such as the one at Attachment F should be established for all officer ranks and based on a combination of officer:
Adoption of these recommendations, and those contained in Attachment F, will do much to motivate officers in seeking advancement through merit, education, and training; while removing much of the politics associated with promotions in the past.
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