Huntington Beach approves $9.8M in police raises amid deficit concerns

The Huntington Beach City Council has approved a new contract with the Huntington Beach Police Officers Association, granting $9.8 million in raises over the next three years. In a split 4-3 vote, the council authorized a 17% pay increase for rank-and-file officers through June 2029, which includes an 8% retroactive raise to July 1.

The decision comes amid concerns regarding the city’s $15.6 million structural deficit. Projections suggest the contract could increase the annual deficit by $2.7 million this year and by $7 million by 2035. Critics on the council expressed concern that the expenditure is “fiscally reckless” and could accelerate the city toward bankruptcy, noting that the city’s reserves currently cover approximately three and a half months of general fund spending.