CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Police officers in Robbins, who walked off the job last fall over working conditions and low pay, have a new contract with a substantial pay increase and new equipment.
Mayor Darren Bryant and Chief David Sheppard both noted this is a big deal and a new day in the village, which has a population of around 4,600.
“It’s a great day in the Village of Robbins. Today makes an historic unity and win for the citizens as we provide more resources and compensation to our officers," said Bryant.
“I’d like to add that it’s a historical, but also an emotional day here in Robbins," said Sheppard.
The department was down to 11 officers at one point, but there are now 26 officers and 7 supervisors. Entry pay was $11.50 per hour. It’s now $17.25 per hour.
Raises will come in increments. Ahmad Boyd is a sergeant.
“The officers have been waiting a long time to receive pay that is comparable," he said.
Rich Blass is the General Counsel for the Illinois Council of Police or ICOPS, the union representing the officers.
"We procured a contract that protects the citizens and also protects the officers," he said.
There are also new ballistic vests, tasers, body cams and license plate reading cameras.
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