Police wages up 17 percent

NEBRASKA CITY - In a public notice, the City of Nebraska City reports a 26 percent increase in its operating budget compared to the prior year.

City Administrator Perry Mader said the increase is primarily due to wage increases for public safety positions.

He said a comparable study showed Nebraska City police salaries too low, so there was an increase of 9 percent in 2024 and a proposed increase of 17.8 percent this budget year for a total of $1.3 million.

Mader said comparable wages will help retain officers who have been dedicated and loyal to Nebraska City and attract new people when there is a vacancy. Nebraska City police had four vacancies last year and will have one this budget cycle with the retirement of police chief Dave Lacy and appointment of Sgt. Ben Murry to that post.

Nebraska City also has a paramedic position open and is increasing the salary for that job, as well.

Mader said there is a 4 percent cost of living increase for city employees.

The proposed property tax request is the same year over year at $1.9 million.

Mader said the city is budgeting higher sales tax.