The Goldsboro City Council unanimously voted during Monday evening’s meeting to approve pay raises for the Goldsboro Police Department.

The City Council previously approved a pay increase for the on Sept. 5, 2023 that was implemented with the first pay period of October 2023.

The newly approved pay increases will cost approximately $64,000 during the 2023-24 fiscal year, with the funds coming from a fund balance, and if necessary, would be include in a budgement amendment ordinance.

Goldsboro Police Chief Michael West will not receive a pay increase.

Goldsboro Mayor Charles Gaylor believes taking the necessary steps towards having a fully staffed police department will have a positive impact on both local law enforcement and the city.

“You look at the other things we want to do, attractive and respectable housing at every price point, opportunities for schools, opportunities for parks, opportunities for economic development, so much of that stems from public safety,” Gaylor said. “If someone is scared to live in a certain neighborhood, or if someone is scared to go to sleep at night they’re not going to perform the next day at school or at work or whatever it is. So, having a police force that is highly, highly competent, is trained, is ethical, is sound in technique and is fully staffed and equipped, I think is a foundational component that you simply have to have.”

During Monday evening’s meeting, West made a presentation to the City Council highlighting the current pay structure within the Goldsboro Police Department in comparison to other law enforcement agencies in the area.

According to West’s presentation Goldsboro police officer’s current salary begins at $47,739 while the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office salary range starts at $50,000. The Wilson Police Department’s salary range begins at $49,859 and the Smithfield Police Department’s salaries start at $49,773.