By JAN LARSON McLAUGHLIN
BG Independent News
Bowling Green City Council voted Monday evening to enter a contract with the BG Police Patrolmen’s Association.
The three-year contract includes no raises in the first year, then a re-opening after that.
All the other city bargaining units have also agreed to no raises due to the impact from COVID-19, said Assistant Municipal Administrator Joe Fawcett.
“So the police union is following suit,” he said.
While there were no raises, there was plenty of praise for the police division.
Council members thanked Chief Tony Hetrick and his officers for helping to enforce the mask mandate in the city.
Council member Greg Robinette read aloud a letter that he sent last month to Hetrick and police division officers:
“The United States of America was founded on the principles of liberty, justice, and the rule of law. I believe that law enforcement is essential to the protection of our freedom and I oppose any attack on the women and men of law enforcement.
“As a member of City Council representing the City of Bowling Green, Ohio, I write this letter to express my support for the Bowling Green Police Division.
“I recognize and appreciate that many of Bowling Green’s officers are sons and daughters of local families, parents of children who attend our schools, youth coaches and volunteers, members of our churches and civic organizations, and most importantly, our friends and neighbors.
“Our community resources and culture are ever changing. However, I believe that there are some necessary components to a thriving, healthy, safe and free community. One component is efficient, empathetic, understanding and community-based policing.
“Unfortunately, a small portion of people in our community and around our state and nation pose a risk to the sense of community that the majority of our community expects and treasures. You, the dedicated officers of the Bowling Green Police Division, however, support our community 24/7 and are committed to protect and serve our community.
“I want you to know that I greatly appreciate, support, and thank you – the women and men of the Bowling Green Police Division, for your dedication and service.”
Mayor Mike Aspacher thanked Robinette for sharing the letter.
“It’s important that we take the time in a proper context to support the police division,” Aspacher said.
The chief recognizes that there is always work to be done, the mayor said.
“We’re proud of what they do,” Aspacher said.
Council member Bill Herald also voiced his appreciation for the police division work and efforts to improve.
Council President Mark Hollenbaugh praised the police officers for their work finding a stolen handcycle last week.
“That was not only a testimony to your guys, but also community tips,” he said to Hetrick. “They are doing an excellent job and I’m very proud.”
