In an editorial, Jersey City Police Superior Officers Association (PSOA) President Pawel Wojtowicz explains why his union is looking forward to working with Mayor-elect James Solomon’s incoming administration.
On behalf of the Jersey City Police Superior Officers Association, we would like to congratulate Mayor-elect Solomon and the newly elected members of the governing body.
We are hopeful—based on the statements made during the Mayor-elect’s campaign and in his newly released public safety plan—that he will make significant improvements to our department.
As he has stated, adding additional officers to our ranks is essential. Our officers are overburdened and spend the vast majority of their time running from call to call. These changes will surely have a positive impact on call-response times.
Mayor-elect Solomon has made it clear that he understands current morale in the department is likely the lowest we have seen in decades, and he has identified improving it as a priority.
The members of our association, in their supervisory roles, are in the best position to help his administration strengthen morale.
As the Mayor-elect recently stated in his public safety plan, “Keeping the public safe is the most important responsibility of city leaders.” We couldn’t agree more.
We have consistently advocated for fair contracts and common-sense policies that improve morale, which in turn leads to better police services. Higher morale equals better performance.
Our members have been without a contract for almost a year, and over the last eight years we have received only a 10.5% salary increase.
With the constant rise in healthcare costs and inflation, combined with the dangers of our profession and higher-than-normal call volume, our members are now among the lowest-paid in the state.
Based on Mayor-elect Solomon’s longstanding support for union members, fair pay, and quality healthcare, we are optimistic that we can reach a mutual agreement that satisfies both the city’s taxpayers and our members.
Our association is eager to work with the new administration while continuing to stand up for our members’ rights. The Jersey City Police Superior Officers Association looks forward to meeting the new governing body and working together toward a safer Jersey City.
Captain Pawel Wojtowicz
President
Jersey City Police Superior Officers Association
Editor’s note: The Jersey City PSOA endorsed former Gov. Jim McGreevey for mayor.
