City, Police Union Agree to 1-Year Pact

The union representing Simi Valley police has finalized an agreement with the city for a one-year labor contract that provides officers, senior officers and sergeants a 2% raise and improved retirement benefits.

Assistant City Manager Laura Magelnicki, the city’s negotiator, said the City Council approved the agreement at its meeting Wednesday night. Because the union had already ratified the pact, it takes effect next week.

The retirement package now requires officers to work until age 55 in order to receive a pension equal to 3% of each year’s salary up to that age. Otherwise, officers work until age 50 to earn 2% for every year of service.

“There is give and take on both sides, and you have to come up with a package that is fair for everybody,” Councilman Steve Sojka said. Union President Fred James could not be reached Thursday for comment.

Negotiators for the city and the union have pledged to remain at the bargaining table to hammer out a longer contract. Disagreements about medical benefits stalled a multiyear deal this time, Sojka said.

The union is also looking for extra compensation for officers who have specialized training, such as those in a K-9 unit or motorcycle cops.