Paterson aims to retain police officers with new contract

PATERSON, N.J. (PIX11) — There are many aspects to policing in Paterson, New Jersey.

But this job, in New Jersey’s third largest city, does indeed come with certain hazards, and a level of intensity that often convinces Paterson’s cops to go looking for higher-paying, less dangerous work – in neighboring suburban communities.

But that could change, with the expected passing of a new police union contract granting across-the-board raises with an emphasis on those with 4 to 8 years on the job.

Union officials say they represent a bulk of the cops leaving the department.

“They should have changed it. They are the front line right there. Most of the cops going to Bergen County and other towns are making a hundred and something thousand a year, living like kings. Everybody got a family to feed,” said long-time Paterson resident N. Jones.

PBA Union officials say over the last six years, more than a hundred Paterson cops left for higher-paying law enforcement work elsewhere.

This new contract – hammered out by the union and Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh, would see a 6-year police department veteran’s salary increase from $56,383 to $88,000 a year.

But Paterson’s proposed increases still pale in comparison to many Bergen County towns,  including Northvale where this year, a 6-year police department veteran is set to earn more than $108K a year.

“We obviously can’t compete with Bergen County. My intentions were to keep us competitive. It took me 18 years to hit $100K. These new kids, it’s going to take eight years. That’s what we were trying to get – get these kids the money they deserve and make them feel appreciated,” said Angel Jiminez, president of the PBA.

Mayor Sayegh acknowledges another factor in the law enforcement talent drain; traditionally less dangerous police work in those neighboring, more affluent, often quieter communities.

“Quite frankly, Paterson has its challenges. Public safety is paramount and we also understand that we are understaffed. Our goal is to get to 439 police officers. On a good day, we are at around 400,” said Mayor Sayegh.

The next step? A vote in the City Council, led by council president Alex Mendez. “We are all on the same page. We have to sign it, execute it, and make our police department stronger.”

Both Jiminez and Mayor Sayegh say that ideally, even 429 officers in New Jersey’s third largest city is not enough and that ideally, Paterson should have at least 600 officers working in its department. The City Council is expected to vote on the new contract in about two weeks.

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