Austin Approves $217.8M Police Contract Amid Controversy

The Austin City Council has approved a new five-year, $217.8 million contract for the Austin Police Department, following a 10-1 vote. The agreement includes a 28% pay raise for officers and aims to improve staffing and recruitment but has sparked controversy over its financial implications and perceived undermining of the Austin Police Oversight Act. Public opposition highlighted concerns that the funds could be better allocated to mental health and homelessness services, and issues regarding the transparency of police misconduct records, known as G-files, remain contentious. Despite these concerns, city officials, including Mayor Kirk Watson, emphasized the necessity of the contract for ensuring public safety and meeting staffing goals. The contract still requires approval from the Austin Police Association before it can be enacted. The decision reflects ongoing tensions between the city's progressive leadership and the police union, influenced by broader discussions on police reform and accountability following the 2020 protests.