North Austin News

The Austin City Council has approved a new five-year contract with the Austin Police Association (APA). The decision, made on Thursday, October 24, saw Council Member Zo Qadri casting the only dissenting vote. The agreement aims to enhance police oversight in line with the Austin Police Oversight Act and includes improvements in hiring and promotional processes for the Austin Police Department. It also involves significant investments in officer pay and benefits, which are expected to provide stability to the department. However, the contract still requires approval from the APA before it can be implemented.

City Manager T.C. Broadnax expressed satisfaction with the outcome: "This is a truly momentous day. After a year-and-a-half without a police contract, we have achieved a major milestone." Broadnax highlighted that finalizing this contract was one of his top priorities since joining the city in May.

Mayor Kirk Watson emphasized the importance of reaching this agreement for achieving staffing goals and ensuring public safety: “Since becoming mayor, I’ve pushed to get us to a long-term contract with our police.” He added that it meets voter expectations regarding police accountability.

The first year's funding for this tentative agreement is included in the Fiscal Year 2025 Approved Budget. The total value of the five-year contract amounts to $217.8 million.

Police Chief Lisa Davis expressed optimism about moving forward: “I am excited that our Austin City Council prioritized and approved the five-year contract.” She acknowledged upcoming challenges but committed to enhancing community engagement and transparency within the department.

Gail McCant, Director of the Office of Police Oversight, stated that "the contract establishes a solid framework" for mutual respect and compliance with transparency provisions outlined in relevant legislation.

Michael Bullock, President of APA, appreciated reaching this stage after prolonged negotiations: “It has been a long road to get to this point.” He credited Mayor Watson and Manager Broadnax’s leadership as instrumental in achieving this milestone.