The following is on op-ed submitted to the Courier by Shana Rowser, director of communications for the City of Flint
Op-eds do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of the Flint Courier News, nor its staff.
Public safety remains one of the most important responsibilities of any city government. The residents of Flint deserve to feel safe in their neighborhoods, and that safety begins with supporting the dedicated men and women who put on the uniform every day to serve and protect our community.
That is why the recent approval of a new agreement between the City of Flint and the Flint Patrol Officers Association is such an important milestone for our city.
Flint City Council recently approved an agreement that represents the largest pay increase for police officers in the history of the City of Flint. This historic investment reflects a clear commitment to strengthening public safety while recognizing the daily sacrifices made by the officers who serve our community.
Police officers face immense challenges in today’s environment. They respond to emergencies, assist residents during moments of crisis, and often place themselves in harm’s way to protect others. Ensuring that these officers are fairly compensated is not just about wages—it is about valuing the work they do and building a strong, stable public safety system.
The new agreement includes several key provisions designed to support both current officers and future recruits. The contract eliminates the lowest step in the wage scale, ensuring that new hires begin their careers with a more competitive starting salary. Officers will also receive a 7 percent pay increase for the current fiscal year, retroactive to July 1, 2025, followed by additional 6 percent increases in both 2026 and 2027.
These improvements will help the City of Flint remain competitive in recruiting and retaining highly qualified officers, an issue facing police departments across the country.
Equally important is the spirit of collaboration that led to this agreement. Members of the Flint Patrol Officers Association unanimously ratified the contract—something union leadership says has rarely happened before.
“My father and grandfather were Flint police officers,” said Michael Forystek, vice president of the Flint Patrol Officers Association. “This is the only time anyone can remember that we’ve ever had a unanimous vote.”
That moment of unity speaks volumes about the partnership between the City and the officers who dedicate their careers to protecting Flint.
Flint Police Chief Terence Green also highlighted the significance of the agreement.
“I want to thank the City Council for approving a contract I feel reflects our administration’s ongoing commitment to strengthening public safety and supporting the dedicated officers who serve the residents of Flint,” Chief Green said.
Mayor Sheldon Neeley emphasized that this historic raise is part of a broader commitment to building a stronger and safer city.
“Our officers put their lives on the line for Flint every single day,” said Mayor Neeley. “This agreement honors their service, strengthens our ability to recruit and retain top talent, and reinforces our commitment to building a safer, stronger Flint for all.”
Strong cities are built through strong partnerships—between government, public safety professionals, and the community. This agreement represents more than a contract. It represents an investment in Flint’s future.
By making the largest investment in police compensation in our city’s history, Flint is demonstrating that supporting those who protect our neighborhoods remains a top priority.
