The Scottsdale City Council has unanimously approved a new Public Safety Compensation Philosophy, reinforcing its commitment to public safety by ensuring that police officers and firefighters remain among the best compensated in the region.
The newly adopted policy requires the city to maintain sworn police and fire pay within the top three of comparable cities in the local market. The city will also conduct annual salary studies and adjust compensation as needed to stay competitive. This approach builds on previous measures by the City Council, such as the creation of step pay plans and the introduction of longevity pay incentives for sworn personnel. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to attract and retain skilled professionals in Scottsdale’s public safety departments.
Police Chief Joe LeDuc expressed gratitude for the city’s support. “I want to thank the City Council and city manager for their continued support of our officers and their recognition that the foundation of any vibrant and healthy city is public safety,” said Chief LeDuc. “This commitment to keeping Scottsdale’s police officers in a leading market position ensures we can retain and hire the very best and reflects a deep understanding of the value our men and women bring to this community and their care for those we serve every day.”
Fire Chief Tom Shannon also acknowledged the council’s ongoing leadership. “We’re grateful for the Mayor and City Council’s steadfast support of our fire fighters,” Chief Shannon said. “This latest action affirms our shared commitment to excellence and ensures we can continue to attract and retain the best firefighters to serve our community.”
City Manager Greg Caton described the resolution as both a practical and philosophical investment in Scottsdale’s future. “The City Council continues to show unwavering support for our employees,” Caton said. “This resolution reaffirms that support, which has created an amazing employment culture where we attract and retain the best employees in the market.”
The City Council approved the action at its meeting on October 21. Details can be found in Resolution No. 13525, available at ScottsdaleAZ.gov.
