RUMFORD – Selectmen recently ratified a new three-year contract with the Rumford Police Department that includes a new position of utility police officer, a slight increase in co-pays for medical appointments, and at least a 3 percent increase for each of the three years.
Town Manager Steve Eldridge said this week that the contract, which begins on July 1, provides a 3.5 percent salary increase for the first year, and 3 percent increases for each of the remaining two years.
He said a change in the medical plan is less costly for both the town and the employees and provides virtually the same coverage. Co-pays will jump from $10 to $15.
The 14-person department will increase by one with the addition of the utility patrolman.
Police Chief Stacy Carter said on Thursday that the additional funding for the position will come from expected savings from the overtime budget.
“This position will be reviewed at the end of the fiscal year. If it benefits the town, it could be extended,” he said.
He said the new position should reduce overtime costs and assure that all shifts are fully staffed.
“This will be an entry-level position without a fixed schedule,” he added.
The only bargaining unit in the town not yet settled is for the Fire Department. Eldridge said that could be completed as soon as June 30.
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