ELKHART, Ind. - The Elkhart Board of Public Safety approved a new collective bargaining agreement on Tuesday to increase pay for Elkhart Police officers.

The bargaining agreement is between the Fraternal Order of Police #52 and the City of Elkhart for sworn law enforcement. The contract is for 2023-2025.

The Elkhart City Council voted 8-0 to approve the contract on December 5.

The contract includes several changes, most notably in regard to compensation.

These changes bring the Elkhart Police Department in line with neighboring law enforcement agencies, according to the police department.

Changes include:

• An 8% increase in base pay for most pay grades in 2023 as well as increases in 2024 and 2025 (4.5% and 4.25%, respectively)
• An increase in incentive pay for certain specialties, like Evidence Technician and Limited English Proficiency/Sign Language Proficiency,  and an increase in shift differential pay for afternoon and midnight shifts
• Double-time hourly rate pay for officers working overtime at city-sponsored events or working overtime due to manpower issues
• Increased longevity pay and counting years of service credit for past certified law enforcement officer experience toward the longevity calculation 

“I’m pleased that they were able to reach this agreement, and thank all of the individuals who worked tirelessly on these contract negotiations," said Chief Kris Seymore. "I also want to thank the Elkhart City Council and the Board of Public Safety for their approval of this contract, and for recognizing the value of our officers and their service to our community."