Pittsburgh Sees 39% Surge in Miscellaneous 'Bonus' Pay: Impact of Police Reinstatements and Retirements

Pittsburgh's payroll costs soared last year, with significant hikes in back pay and negotiated longevity compensation for first responders. The city's “bonus” payroll rose by nearly 40%, totaling $3.6 million, largely driven by retirements. Police, EMS, and City Council saw the most notable increases, highlighting evolving fiscal challenges. Tables presented examine specific salary fluctuations across various departments and showcase prominent extra payments, including considerable back pay to reinstated officers. Overall, these shifts underscore the city's financial complexities and employee compensation dynamics.