Houston plans 36.5% salary increase for police over five years

Houston officials have reached a tentative five-year agreement with the police officers' union that would provide a 36–36.5% salary increase for officers by 2029, beginning with a 10% raise this year. The new contract would boost the base pay for first-year officers from about $62,000 to $75,000, with additional bonuses for working weekends or late shifts, potentially raising total first-year compensation to $81,600. The deal aims to address recruitment and retention challenges by making Houston police salaries more competitive with other Texas cities. While the agreement must still be approved by the union and city council, both Mayor John Whitmire and police leadership describe it as 'monumental' and 'life-changing,' expected to improve officer morale and public safety. The total cost of the contract is estimated at $832 million over five years, during a period when the city faces a budget deficit exceeding $200 million. Mayor Whitmire has stated he will present a balanced budget despite the increased police spending.