Connolly Against Police Officer Pay Hike
BOSTON (CBS) -- Mayoral candidate John Connolly said he won't support the 25.4-percent pay hike decided by arbitrators to award to police officers.
The city offered a 19-percent pay increase, while the Boston Police Patrolmen's Association asked for 31-percent. Arbitrators then ruled to award the officers a 25.4-percent pay hike in six years.
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Bernice Corpuz reports
Mayoral Candidate Connolly Against Police Office Pay Hike
"The question is whether the arbitrator's decision strikes the right balance between achieving fiscal responsibility and compensating our police officers fairly," Connolly said. "I have concluded that is does not, and I'm calling on the city and the patrolmen's association to go back to the bargaining table."
He said he will not support the pay increase when the issue comes for a vote before the city council.
"It would damage the city's long-term fiscal health," Connolly said.
Connolly's rival for mayor, Marty Walsh, is also against the $80 million award.
Walsh blames Mayor Tom Menino for letting these negotiations go to arbitration.
