January 16, 2024 Press Release from the City of Lima: On Tuesday, January 16th, 2024, Mayor Sharetta Smith alongside Lima Police Chief Angel Cortes announced a significant investment in public safety for the New Year.
“Safe and livable neighborhoods was a key priority identified by our community during the Better Together Plan development and continues to be at the forefront of our residents’ minds, as evidenced by the 2023 Community Survey results,” states Mayor Sharetta Smith.
In a joint effort to improve retention and recruitment of officers, Mayor Smith and Chief Cortes shared that the City of Lima will be increasing the starting pay for new officers to $29.28 per hour, and that all existing officers will receive a $3 per hour wage increase at the start of 2024 and a 3% wage increase each year of the contract.
“Growing our force so that more patrol officers are out in the community, engaged with our citizens and businesses enhances the safety for everyone in the greater Lima region,” states Mayor Sharetta Smith. “Lima is not the only city impacted by the nation-wide shortages in law enforcement, but our team has risen to the challenge to create viable solutions to ensure the continued safety of our community. The collaboration of our Human Resources, Finance, and Police departments is a testament to that commitment.”
Through the City’s initial investment of approximately $560k for salaries and wages, and with an additional increase of $200k for salaries and wages the following year, the administration aims to reduce overtime expenditures, grow the police force by attracting top talent in a competitive job market, and enhance public safety throughout the community. Investments in safety services represent over 40% of the overall budget, which is consistent with historic spending.
Individuals interested in employment at the Lima Police Department should complete a Civil Service application, which can be accessed through the City’s website at https://www.cityhall.lima.oh.us/155/Civil-Service.
