STONE HARBOR POLICE DEPARTMENT FACES CONTRACT IMPASSE AMID OFFICER TURNOVER

STONE HARBOR, N.J. — The Stone Harbor Police Department has been operating without a labor contract for the past 18 months, a situation contributing to the recent departure of four officers in just four months. Compensation and benefits are cited as primary factors driving the turnover. The police union has emphasized that Stone Harbor offers the lowest law enforcement pay in Cape May County, along with a lack of post-retirement health care benefits that other nearby departments provide. These issues have created challenges in retaining personnel. The Borough Council acknowledged the contract negotiations remain unresolved but confirmed a counteroffer has been made in ongoing discussions. Rising employee health insurance costs have further complicated the talks. Borough officials noted health premiums have increased significantly for the past three years, with projections indicating another steep rise in 2026. Mayor Tim Carney stressed the borough’s responsibility to balance fair compensation for officers with fiscal prudence toward taxpayers. The negotiations are now being handled by the borough’s labor counsel and the newly appointed borough administrator, Joe Clark, who recently started his role. The contract talks come amid staffing challenges as the department works to maintain adequate coverage. The borough continues efforts to secure a contract that supports police retention while managing escalating operational costs.