City, Police Union Announce Contract Agreement

Published on September 03, 2025

New contract would increase wages 17% over three years

Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird today announced that the City’s agreement on a new contract with the Lincoln Police Union prioritizes public safety and maintains Lincoln’s competitiveness when attracting and retaining police officers.

The City Council is scheduled to hold a public hearing and vote on a resolution to adopt the contract September 29. The new contract will take effect upon the Council’s approval and signing by the mayor. The three-year contract was negotiated by the Lincoln Police Union and a City team that included staff from the Lincoln-Lancaster County Human Resources Department, Lincoln Police Department (LPD), and the City Attorney’s office.

“The City of Lincoln continues to offer competitive wages for law enforcement positions, ensuring we attract and retain high-quality officers and sergeants,” said Mayor Gaylor Baird. “This new contract supports LPD’s ability to keep pace with Lincoln’s growth and to deliver excellent safety and health outcomes for our community members, while also ensuring proper compensation for our officers and their families.”

Joining Mayor Gaylor Baird and Chief Morrow at the news conference was Joe Villamonte, LPD Investigator and Lincoln Police Union President.

Chief Michon Morrow noted that LPD’s recent recruitment class of 22 participants is one of the largest in the past 25 years.

“This achievement reflects years of dedicated work, showcasing the value of our profession and how the next generation of officers can find their calling at LPD,” Chief Morrow said. “It also highlights the commitment of our city to provide wages and benefits that will only further strengthen our ability to attract high quality candidates to our department.”

Mayor Gaylor Baird thanked the Lincoln Police Union and negotiating team for a smooth negotiation process that maintains competitive salaries for a police force that is at 97% of authorized strength.

Highlights of the proposed contract include:

  • A wage package that raises salaries 6% in the current fiscal year, 6% in the 2025-26 fiscal year and 5% in 2026-27, for a total increase of 17% over three years 
  • Increases to premium pay for longevity, Field Training Officer and special assignments 
  • A wellness program expanded from 90 minutes a week to two hours a week
  • Leave benefits that offer various enhancements, including clarification that probationary employees may use accrued sick and vacation leave

Villamonte thanked all involved in the negotiation process for prioritizing public safety.

“Our membership recognizes that Mayor Gaylor Baird and her staff are deeply committed to keeping this agency one of the best in the nation and keeping the city one of the safest in the nation,” Villamonte said.

More information on LPD Is available at police.lincoln.ne.gov.

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