Vienna PD: Pay increase a boost for recruiting
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As the City of Vienna welcomes two new police officers to the force -- though there is still room for one more -- Police Chief Mike Pifer was correct when he said, "This is an exciting day for the Vienna Police Department."
It is worth noting, however, that both officers come to Vienna with policing experience ... in the Parkersburg Police Department.
It seems Vienna City Councilman Tom Azinger was on to something when he proposed a $12,000-a-year pay increase on July 27. The increase was amended to $2.88 per hour or $6,000 per year on Aug. 10 and approved by City Council.
Pifer called that increase a factor in being able to hire the two new officers.
"It's a big step forward in recruitment," he said.
And it is a win for the citizens of Vienna.
"They are experienced officers who will be a great asset to our force," said Mayor Randy Rapp.
Council members are to be commended for weighing the risks versus rewards and taking the steps that brought those officers on board. The move must serve as an example for those who are having to get ever more creative in recruiting the top-notch people they need to fill these kinds of jobs in our communities.
Azinger is right that more officers mean more safety for Vienna. Decision-makers across the Mid-Ohio Valley must take note.