City Council approves $75,000 hiring incentive for new police officers

Published on April 03, 2023

At its March 21, 2023 meeting, the Alameda City Council unanimously approved a $75,000 hiring incentive for entry-level, academy graduates, and lateral police officers. Currently, Alameda Police Department (APD) staffing is down nearly 30 percent with 24 police officer vacancies, and similar trends exist throughout the state and region. This new $75,000 incentive will remain in place until the City fills its vacancies.

APD has hired 20 new police officers since June 2021, yet the rate of resignations and retirements outpaces the rate of staffing additions. These vacant positions directly impact the City’s ability to deliver critical public safety services in a timely, efficient, and effective manner. Filling vacant positions will improve response times, community outreach, traffic safety, and crime prevention. 

The $75,000 hiring incentive is groundbreaking and puts APD at the forefront of recruitment, attracting significant interest and allowing APD to select the best and further diversify the agency. Officers receive the first $25,000 after being sworn in and an additional $50,000 after completing the field training program. Interested people can view available jobs and apply today.