Why the Oakland Cops’ Union Must Compromise

If the Oakland Police Officer’s Association fails to compromise today during negotiations with city leaders, the result could prove devastating to members of its own union in the months ahead. The reason is that the Oakland City Council is poised to put tax measures on the November ballot to raise funds that are desperately needed to avoid more police layoffs. The passage of those tax measures is no sure thing, but if the cops’ union refuses to compromise and begin contributing to police pension plans now, then the measures are likely doomed to defeat.