Council introduces salary ordinance for Muncie Police Department; chief reports new sworn officers

Councilors introduced Ordinance 4-26 to set the 2026 salary maxima for members of the Muncie Police Department. Deputy/acting Chief Chris Degan spoke as a point of clarity, noting the ordinance reflects terms negotiated with the police union and that a finalized collective-bargaining agreement will appear for council action next month.

Degan also provided a staffing update: six officers were sworn in that day, and accounting for retirements and transitions the department expects to reach about 108–109 sworn officers — the staffing level anticipated under the new contract. He described the staffing and compensation progress as "a collective effort" among administration and council.

Next steps: Ordinance 4-26 was introduced and the council will consider formal adoption as the collective-bargaining agreement and final paperwork are completed.