Number
050061
Version
ORIGINAL
Reference
Sponsor
ALD. MCGEE
Title
Resolution directing the Intergovernmental Relations Division-Department of Administration to seek introduction and passage of state legislation amending statutory provisions to cease payment of salary and benefit compensation of police officers in cities of the First Class after termination from employment by the Chief of Police.
Analysis
This resolution directs the Intergovernmental Relations Division-Department of Administration to seek introduction and passage of state legislation amending statutory provisions providing for the continuing salary and benefit compensation of police officers in cities of the First Class after termination from employment by the Chief of Police.
The current state law provides for terminated police officers in cities of the First Class to receive pay and benefits until their cases have been decided by the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners. Amending the pertinent state statutes will cease the payment of salary and benefits to terminated police officers upon the imposition of this discipline by the Chief of Police.
Body
Whereas, A 1980 state law that applies only to Milwaukee requires terminated police officers to receive full pay and benefits until their appeals are exhausted; and
Whereas, Throughout the state, no other police officer who has been terminated from employment enjoys salary and benefits; and
Whereas, Since 1994, the average appeal process for terminated Milwaukee police officers takes approximately nine months; and
Whereas, Since 1994, The City of Milwaukee has paid over $2.1 million in salary and benefits to 30 terminated officers who were not reinstated or whose cases remain pending; and
Whereas, Most, if not all, terminated Milwaukee police officers appeal their discipline and are guaranteed salary and benefits for at least 110 days and longer because of state law, Fire and Police Commission rules and various other circumstances; and
Whereas, Appellants whose terminations are overturned by the board will enjoy the restoration of their salaries, including lost pay; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, By the Common Council of the City of Milwaukee, that the Intergovernmental Relations Division-Department of Administration is directed to seek introduction and passage of state legislation amending statutory provisions providing for the continuing salary and benefit compensation of police officers in cities of the First Class after termination from employment by the Chief of Police so that payment of salary and benefits will cease for terminated officers.
Requestor
Drafter
LRB 05169-1
mar
04/28/2005