City of Cape considering to ask voters on tax levy for public safety salaries

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI)- The City of Cape Girardeau public safety pay is looking to become a little more competitive.

Cape Girardeau needs more competitive pay for its police officers and firefighters according to a release from the City of Cape.

To fund it, Police Chief Wes Blair says the city council will consider asking voters for the real estate and personal property tax rates closer to what other cities are already collecting.

“We’re behind a lot of other agencies in our market and this is a very competitive market, and nationally it’s a competitive market,” said Chief Blair.

Under a proposed plan, police officers and firefighters would get an 8% pay increase in year one.

Fire Chief Randy Morris says it’s been pretty back and forth to get the boost in pay.

“All in all, we’re trying to stay competitive, not only within our region but with other comparative cities without the state,” said Fire Chief Morris.

All funding from the 25 cent levy will be used for police officer and firefighter salary and benefits. Property taxes can be a reliable funding source, more resilient against economic swings.

“What we’re putting out to the voters is what it’s going to be used for,” Morris added.