Police Protest Stalled Contract Negotiations

HUNTINGTON BEACH — Chanting “We want a new contract, now,” about 200 police officers set up a tent city outside City Hall on Monday to protest stalled contract talks.

The Police Officers Assn. has been working without a raise or contract since 1993, and union members said that has caused several veteran officers to leave the department.

“This is a peaceful demonstration to show residents what is going on in their city,” said David McCain, a police officer and spokesman for the union, which organized the protest.

The first tent was pitched at 6 a.m. Monday, and the camp-out was expected to continue through 6 p.m. today. Organizers said police services in the city will not be disrupted, because only off-duty officers will participate in the demonstration.

Like the police, several Huntington Beach city employee unions have not had raises since 1993. City officials blame tight budgets and the state’s claim to increasing portions of tax revenue.

“We want people to know that morale is plummeting and this is not a positive work environment,” Officer Brian Seitz said.

About 25 tents were set up during the day in an area between City Hall and the Police Department offices. Officers and family members living in the tents passed out fliers.

“We deserve a raise,” Officer Mark Garcia said. “I hope people realize how serious we are.”

The union recently rejected an offer from the city. Last week, the latest round of negotiations had reached an impasse. A mediator is expected to intervene in coming months.

At Monday’s City Council meeting, officials heard an earful from angry officers and family members who voiced their frustration with the stalled contract negotiations.

“We want to be treated fairly,” Officer Mike Christ told council members.

Mayor Ralph H. Bauer said the City Council would try to work out a resolution to the impasse.

“Our intent is to be fair and provide remuneration,” he said. “There are negotiations underway, and we are not calling a halt to negotiations.”

Huntington Beach police officers who are not administrators earn a top monthly salary of $4,141.