Champion approves new contract with police

CHAMPION -- Township trustees on Tuesday approved a new three-year contract with the police department union that represents six full-time officers.

Trustee Chairman Doug Emerine said the new contract, which is retroactive to May 1, grants a 3.25% pay increase this year and 3% increases in 2027 and 2028.

The starting salary for a police officer is $28.50 per hour. Police officers also will contribute 7% toward their healthcare coverage.

Trustees have been in negotiations with the police union for several months.

Trustees also recognized police detective Michael Lowery for exemplary service for his work in investigating a recent case.

Police Chief Larry Skaggs said Lowery handled and investigated "a very serious case of involuntary manslaughter in which he gave great care and work" with a Cortland man having faced charges in court and awaiting sentencing. He said a juvenile in Champion died from an overdose, which prompted the investigation.

Trustees also hired Hayes Yocum as a full-time firefighter./ paramedic at $19.93 per hour.

Trustees said they are trying to add to their ranks in the fire department.