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After Raising Taxes Twice to Hire More Cops, Indianapolis Has Fewer Than Before

Since 2007, the city of Indianapolis has raised income taxes twice in order to hire new police officers.

Since 2007, the city of Indianapolis has raised income taxes twice in order to hire new police officers.

 

The first time, city leaders promised to add 100. The next, as many as 150.

 

But on Sept. 1, the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department had 59 fewer officers than it did before the first tax hike took effect. And yet, the city is spending 33 percent more on police — an estimated $259 million this year, including retiree pensions — than it did in 2007.

 

Over the years, city officials and City-County Council members have blamed troubles growing the police force on a number of factors: the recession and property tax caps, the rising costs of health care and equipment and challenges associated with attrition. And all have played a role.

 

But an IndyStar analysis of city budget documents and payroll records found that the biggest reason the city is spending more for fewer cops  also is one of the least discussed: pay raises for police.

Caroline Cournoyer is GOVERNING's senior web editor.
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