Austin Police Union Pushes for New Contract, But Will It Serve the Public Good?

Does it comply with and build upon the voter-approved Austin Police Oversight Act, or does it undermine democracy along with police oversight, transparency and accountability? That depends on what it says."

Equity Action board member [Kat Harris](mailto:kharris@equity regie.com)

The fate of Austin's police oversight and accountability hinges on a secretive contract negotiation between the city and the Austin Police Association (APA). In a surprising shift, the APA now pushes for a deal, but the details are hidden from the Council and the public. The history of evidence-hiding by Austin PD casts doubt on negotiators' claims of fulfilling voters' will.

A Rush to Adoption

The proposed contract will shape policing in Austin, affecting recruitment, retention, promotion, and most importantly, oversight and transparency. With the power to impact the city budget permanently, this deal must be scrutinized. The public deserves to know if the contract will create deficits, leading to cuts in essential services and infrastructure.

A Plea for Transparency

The negotiation process must return to full public view, with proposed language shared, as is Austin's longstanding practice. This ensures any unacceptable terms can be amended. Should negotiators continue to conceal the details, the City Council must be prepared to vote down the contract, protecting the interests of Austinites over a police union seeking self-serving deals.

Link

https://www.austinchronicle.com/news/2023-02-10/opa-city-council-police-contract-transparency/