Seattle City Council Approves Controversial Police Contract with Significant Raises

The Seattle City Council has approved a new contract with the Seattle Police Officers Guild, providing officers a retroactive 23% pay increase from 2021. This contract aims to improve morale and address staffing shortages in the police department. While it introduces some oversight measures, critics argue it lacks essential accountability reforms. The financial burden of nearly $60 million adds to a $230 million budget deficit, raising concerns about the balance between police funding and community safety initiatives. As discussions for future contracts continue, the debate over police accountability and funding remains a critical issue for Seattle residents.