Miami Gardens Council ratifies three-year police contract, leaders say it will aid recruitment and retention

The Miami Gardens City Council voted on March 25 to ratify a collective bargaining agreement between the City and the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) covering Oct. 1, 2025, through Sept. 30, 2028 (item 12.1).

City Manager (Mr. Benson) introduced the agreement and yielded to Exum Gentil, identified in the record as a leader for the officers, who thanked the city for negotiating in good faith and noted that many items had been discussed prior to formal bargaining. "The officers are grateful," Exum Gentil said, and he expressed appreciation for staff and negotiating team members.

The city manager and several council members described the talks as difficult but constructive and emphasized public safety, recruitment and retention. Council members thanked the department and outside counsel Allison Smith, and Deputy City Manager Craig Clay and HR Director Melissa Negron were credited for working on the negotiations. Council stated the contract will help the city remain competitive for recruitment and improve retention. Council voiced concern about rising health-insurance costs and acknowledged that the contract followed a prolonged negotiation period.

The motion to ratify was made, seconded and passed by voice vote with no recorded opposition. The meeting record does not include detailed line-by-line financial terms or specific budget appropriation language for the contract; planning and budget staff were acknowledged as participants in the negotiation process. Council members said follow-up work will continue on recruitment strategies for parks and public works and other employee groups.

Council praised the police department for service and leadership during the negotiation period and invited officers to gather for a ceremonial photo following the vote.