The Ithaca Common Council is considering increasing the police chief’s salary from $132,552 to $150,000 and offering a $50,000 sign-on bonus, paid over three years, to attract a suitable candidate for the city’s troubled police department. The news was first reported by the Ithaca Voice.
Public Sector Search & Consulting, a national search firm hired by the city, recommended the changes.
The City Administration Committee approved the increase with a 4-1 vote, forwarding it to a full Common Council vote.
Ithaca Police Department currently lacks a permanent chief, and the search for one has been both challenging and expensive, costing up to $57,500 for recruiting services.
With the department facing low staffing numbers and the city pushing for public safety reform, the need for permanent leadership is urgent.
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