Despite expending an extra $4 million to add a sixth academy class in 2025, the Houston Police Department is on pace to graduate fewer cadets this fiscal year compared to 2024, which only had five classes.
Mayor John Whitmire, police leaders and outside experts all pointed out that despite the tepid start to the year, conditions might soon change with a new union contract guaranteeing big wage hikes to the city’s 5,200 officers.
“The new police contract is bringing more recruits, and that does not include lateral hires that are now planned,” Whitmire said. “We will have plenty demand for classes. Applications are high.”…