Hermiston City Council Approves Police Contract
HERMISTON, Oregon — The Hermiston City Council has approved a new three-year collective bargaining agreement between the City of Hermiston and the Hermiston Police Association (HPA), covering fiscal years 2026 through 2028. The agreement reflects several significant updates designed to align with current state law, improve clarity, and enhance the City’s ability to retain and attract qualified personnel.
The approved agreement was the result of a collaborative and efficient negotiation process. While negotiations began later than anticipated, both City staff and HPA representatives worked diligently to complete the process swiftly. The agreement was approved by the City Council and is in the final stages of ratification by HPA membership.
Key updates in the new contract include the formal inclusion of police sergeants in the bargaining unit, following recently enacted legislation authorizing their representation. The agreement also includes numerous revisions to bring contract language into compliance with updated state laws regarding union activity, sick leave, compensation practices, and administrative procedures.
As part of its effort to remain competitive in the labor market, the City has approved cost-of-living adjustments for all covered employees. Police officers and records specialists will receive annual increases of 3%, 3%, and 2% over the next three fiscal years, along with additional step advancements in the first two years. Sergeants, whose compensation is closer to market averages, will receive 3% increases in each of the three years without additional step movement.
City Manager Byron Smith praised the cooperative nature of the negotiations and noted that the agreement puts Hermiston in a stronger position to attract and retain qualified law enforcement professionals.
“This contract reflects a shared commitment between the City and the HPA to support the dedicated public servants in our police department,” said Smith. “The changes help modernize our agreement, ensure compliance with state law, and provide a competitive compensation structure that reflects the value these employees bring to our community.”
The new contract will take effect immediately and remain in place through June 30, 2028.
The City of Hermiston is a vibrant, growing community of more than 20,000 residents at the crossroads of the Pacific Northwest. Located near the intersection of Interstate 84 and Interstate 82, just minutes from a Columbia River port and the Washington state line, Hermiston is capitalizing on its location as a transportation center and gateway to Oregon. To learn more, go to www.hermiston.or.us.
###
*This summary of City Council Staff Report provided with the assistance of ChatGPT. The Original Staff Report and associated documentation is available HERE.
