Peabody, police department reach contract settlement

PEABODY – The city of Peabody and the Peabody Police Benevolent Association put an end to the negotiation process last week.According to a released statement, both parties have signed a new collective bargaining agreement that will last over four years from 2007 to 2011.Details of the agreement were not yet released, as the proposed contract still needs to receive the support of the City Council before going into effect. However, the release did note that “both parties made compromises in reaching a fair and equitable contract.”Officers will receive pay increases relevant to the increased cost of living, as well as enhanced training pay for weapons qualifications.The release also stated that beginning in 2009, officers will be forced to pay a greater percentage of their health insurance premiums, as well as higher co-pay charges. A comprehensive drug testing policy was also added to the contract.”The Mayor (Michael Bonfanti) and the Association are proud to settle their agreement for the betterment of the entire Peabody community,” the statement concluded.