Berlin Police Get Bonuses, No Cost to Taxpayers

Berlin, MD - Berlin Police officers are getting a little extra in their paychecks this month. The Town of Berlin just approved one-time retention bonuses for all current sworn officers on the force. And here's the best part: it won't cost taxpayers a dime.

The Mayor and Council unanimously approved the bonuses, which were announced on June 29. The money came from salary savings within the police department's existing budget, not from new funding.

So where did the savings come from? The Berlin Police Department was budgeted for fifteen sworn officers this fiscal year. As positions went unfilled, staffing dropped to nine officers, leaving extra room in the budget.

Those remaining officers picked up the slack. They took on extra responsibilities and worked additional shifts to make sure Berlin residents still got the same level of police service. Chief Howard S. Drewer asked that some of those savings go back to the officers who stepped up.

"Our officers have remained committed to serving the Town of Berlin while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and public service," Chief Drewer said. "This retention initiative recognizes their dedication and reflects the Town's commitment to investing in the people who have chosen to serve this community. I am grateful to the Mayor and Council for their support and for recognizing the value of retaining experienced law enforcement professionals."

Keeping experienced officers on the job matters for the whole community. Officers who stick around build real relationships with neighbors, schools, and local businesses. Over time, that means more trust, better public safety, and lower costs for recruiting and training new hires down the road.

The Berlin Police Department thanked the Mayor and Council for backing the initiative. They also gave a shout-out to Berlin residents for the everyday support and trust they show officers on the job.