Negotiations are ongoing between Oakland's city and the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers Local 21 regarding a new contract. The union proposes civilianizing five positions currently held by police officers, including intake technicians and an IT worker. They claim this shift would save the city approximately $160,000 per civilian position compared to a sworn officer, allowing more officers to be deployed in the field and potentially reducing overtime costs. Amid ongoing financial problems, city leaders are exploring ways to cut costs while maintaining essential services.
The union is proposing to civilianize five desk-bound positions currently filled by police officers, including four intake technicians handling misconduct complaints and one IT worker.
Civilianizing these positions could save Oakland approximately $160,000 per year per intake technician compared to a sworn officer due to lower costs.
By reallocating police officers from desk jobs to field roles, the city could potentially reduce significant overtime expenses currently incurred by the police department.
The City Council recently approved a two-year budget aimed at addressing a $265 million deficit while facing long-term financial challenges that require enduring solutions.
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