Collective Bargaining Agreement green-lighted in Rehoboth Beach
REHOBOTH BEACH, Del. – The Rehoboth Beach Commissioners and Police Department have approved a new collective bargaining agreement.
“Our police officers do important, hard work … This revised contract helps ensure that the City of Rehoboth Beach Police Department remains competitive in the market and is able to attract top law enforcement candidates,” City Manager Taylour Tedder stated in a press release.
Agreement Details
The three-year agreement goes into effect on April 1, 2025. It includes starting salary increases for officers, as well as 100 percent payment of health insurance coverage. Police officers’ dependents will receive 80 percent coverage.
Additionally, the agreement provides for a one percent increase between years of service, plus a four percent annual cost-of-living increase in years two and three of the contract.
The agreement also clarifies testing requirements for attaining the rank of sergeant, and incorporates changes related to the department’s drug and alcohol and bereavement leave policies to align with current city practices.
Pumping Up the Applicant Pool
Chief of Police Keith Banks said the agreement could help in attracting the best possible applicants.
“Here in Rehoboth Beach, we have a high standard. We want quality officers. We have them now, and we want to continue to bring in good personnel,” said Chief Banks.
Chief Banks reported his agency is currently testing for full-time officers. The department is authorized to employ 22, and Chief Banks said 20 spots are currently filled.
“We need individuals who are go-getters, but more importantly that they’re willing to be out there in the public. This is a tourism town, and we want to make sure it’s a safe environment, but at the same time we want to connect with our community,” Chief Banks said.
Looking Ahead
And as the city’s busy summer tourism season approaches, Chief Banks said it is all hands on deck. He said there are many large events to prepare for, while also collaborating with allied agencies.
“Not only are we looking for full-time officers, we are also in the process of hiring for our summer officers. And, honestly, we are probably seeing better candidates this year, as well as more applicants … I think we are going to be fully staffed and ready ti go. We look forward to everyone coming to Rehoboth Beach and visiting us,” Chief Banks said.
