President’s Message | October 23, 2023

Dear Fellow Sergeant,

As we embark on the holiday season, our primary goal is finalizing a new contract and addressing a key problem that is unique to SBA members. At issue is the fact that in some instances newly promoted Sergeants are making less money than the Police Officers and Detectives they supervise.

This inexplicable and unacceptable pay disparity is the result of a ludicrous practice called “attrition bargaining.” This occurs when the City uses the reduction of the workforce, among other things, to make future hiring plans and predict future costs of collective bargaining agreements. This chicanery makes New York City the only municipality where a law enforcement promotion comes with a decrease in pay.

Making this situation even more appalling is the fact that the Department is losing personnel in huge numbers. Morale is at historical lows, while crime is rampant and there is no political support for law enforcement at a time when it is so greatly needed.

Many Police Officers are retiring after a few years, and scores of Sergeants are leaving at the 20-year mark, resulting in a depleted and inexperienced workforce. With all the global unrest that directly impacts New York, this is especially unsettling. I assure you that rectifying the pay disparity is our top priority.

November 4th will mark the 7-year anniversary of the line of duty death of active Sgt. Paul Tuozzolo, the 43 Precinct Delegate, who was shot and killed while attempting to arrest a paroled career criminal for terrorizing his family. Another Sergeant was shot and wounded in this tragic incident.

Sgt. Tuozzolo’s wife and two sons, as well as their extended family, have carried on amid unrelenting heartbreak. They have become an integral part of the SBA family, and despite their unfathomable grief serve as inspirations to us all.

Please take a moment to reflect on the legacy of Sgt. Tuozzolo, as well as all the brave men and women of law enforcement who have sacrificed so much in the name of public safety.

This includes retired Sgts. Theresa Foiles, Leonard Davis, and Wanda Negron, all of whom lost valiant battles with 9/11 related illnesses since late September. These Sergeants served the NYPD and the SBA with utmost dedication and commitment, and it is crucial that we never forget their service or their sacrifice.

On a happier note, the SBA’s annual Holiday Delegate/Membership Luncheon will be held on Friday, December 22, 2023, at Russo’s on the Bay in Queens. As is customary, the drawing for the annual Car Raffle will be held at the joyous event.

The proceeds from the Raffle enable the SBA to provide Health and Welfare benefits to surviving spouses and children of SBA members. We now have over 500 survivors who receive such benefits, so we ask that you contribute to this worthy cause.

Raffle tickets are available from Delegate or Directors, as well as at the SBA office or through the mail or the SBA website: www.sbanyc.org

Please be safe and vigilant as you continue to perform your duties in exemplary fashion. Thanks for your tremendous efforts on behalf of the SBA, NYPD, and the people of the City of New York, and best wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season.

The next contract negotiation date is November 6, and we will keep you apprised of any developments.

Fraternally,

Vincent J. Vallelong
President
Sergeants Benevolent Association

• Category: President's Message