MILWAUKEE, Wis. (WFRV) – The Milwaukee Police Association (MPA) released a statement on Friday afternoon calling the City of Milwaukee’s labor contract actions a ‘betrayal’ to its officers.
The statement comes as negotiations for a new labor agreement continue following the expiration of the previous one in December 2022. Since at least September 2023, the two sides have gone back and forth; however, the MPA says the city has hindered progress.
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“Since at least September 2023—following the enactment of Act 12—the MPA has worked in good faith to bring this matter to resolution through every available legal and procedural channel: direct negotiation, mediation, and arbitration. Each time, our progress has been derailed by the City’s dysfunction, disorganization, and deliberate delay.”
According to the MPA, officers’ continued service has come despite not having a contract or wage increase for over 2.5 years. The MPA’s release said the City of Milwaukee is now delaying arbitration to ‘spend tax dollars and hire outside lawyers.’
In addition, the MPA expressed continued gratitude for the support from the public after the unexpected fatal shooting of their colleague, Milwaukee Police Officer Kendall Corder. Officer Corder’s funeral was attended by officials and police throughout the state.
The following statement concluded the release, calling on city officials to stand with the police officers:
“The MPA will not be deterred. We will continue to fight for a contract that reflects the professionalism and sacrifice of Milwaukee’s police officers. The Mayor and Common Council must answer one question: who do you stand with? Clearly, the community stands with their police.”
The City of Milwaukee has not yet released a response to the MPA.
Local 5 will provide updates as needed.
