AUSTIN, Texas — After a year and a half of waiting and negotiations, Austin's police contract could finally come to a vote.
New Police Chief Lisa Davis is ready for it.
"At the end of the day, we're working toward the same goals. And so, I think that is when you come to a contract and those resolutions can be made. That's when we can start recruiting, and that's when we're going to start bringing that talent here to Austin," Davis said.
One of the sticking points during contract talks stemmed from the confidential "G file," which contains information on officers accused of misconduct.
"It's a weird position to be in, and it's not a political one. But, unfortunately you have to be there to support both sides, and I support both and an agreement coming," Davis said.
In 2023, voters approved the Police Oversight Act, which includes making those records public. Then, a Travis County judge ruled to do away with the G-file.
Councilmember Chito Vela requested clarity about the tentative contract and police oversight.
On Monday, the city attorney released a memo saying all records of police officer conduct, whether the conduct occurred before or after the new contract, are not confidential.
"I really do hope that APA [Austin Police Association] also reads the contract in the same light and also views the G file to be completely public, both past and present," Councilmember Zo Qadri said.
Qadri said he still has questions about the price tag of the tentative contract, which is about $218 million.
"Where does that money come from? Does it potentially hinder any other departments?" He asked. "So there are, you know, other questions we're still kind of looking for answers."
KVUE reached out to Austin Police Association President Michael Bullock for a comment. He sent this statement:
"The language in the contract provides that there will be no 'G file' for alleged officer misconduct during the five-year term of the agreement. APA agrees that the first sentence of Article 16, Section 4 (a) means that for documents created outside the contract timeframe, we will rely on 143.089 and how a court interprets 143.089 and Prop A. We may not always agree on the interpretation of a court ruling, but we are in agreement as to what the contract says."
Council members are expected to vote on the contract as early as Oct. 10.