New Haven Police Announce Tentative Agreement on New Contract
New Haven, CT — February 3, 2026 — Mayor Justin Elicker and Police Union President Florencio Cotto have announced a tentative six-year contract covering 326 officers.
New Haven Police Announce Tentative Agreement on New Contract
New Haven, CT — February 3, 2026 — Mayor Justin Elicker and Police Union President Florencio Cotto have announced a tentative six-year contract covering 326 officers. The proposed agreement includes:
- Annual Pay Increases: Officers will receive retroactive increases of 2.5% for fiscal years 2022-23 and 2023-24, followed by a 5% increase each subsequent fiscal year through 2028.
- Enhanced Starting Salaries: New recruits will start at $70,000 in fiscal year 2024-25, with increases in subsequent years, making New Haven’s starting salaries among the highest in Connecticut.
- Improved Work Schedules: Patrol officers will transition to a 5-3, 5-3 schedule, and administrative staff to a 4-3, 5-2 schedule with shorter shifts.
- Deferred Retirement Option Plan (DROP): Eligible officers can participate in DROP, allowing them to collect retirement benefits while continuing to work.
- Healthcare Plan Updates: New deductible structures and cost-sharing measures will be adopted, aligning with other municipal union contracts.
- Online Crime Reporting: Civilians can report minor, non-emergency crimes online, allowing officers to focus on more urgent cases.
- New Disciplinary Procedures: Officers charged with a felony may be placed on unpaid leave, with full back pay awarded if charges are dismissed or the officer is found not guilty.
The contract is pending ratification by the union membership and approval by the Board of Alders. If ratified, it will take effect retroactively from July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2028.
