WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) – Wilmington Mayor Bill Saffo and City Councilman Luke Waddell spent more than 90 minutes with leaders of a police advocacy organization on Oct. 31 discussing “pressing issues” with the Wilmington Police Department, according to a document. Obtained by WECT News on Thursday.

Brannon Gray, president of the Southeast Chapter of the North Carolina Police Benevolent Association, sent a letter to department members this week offering insight into the meeting, calling it “an important step forward” for WPD.

“This meeting was not only productive, but also transformative in shaping our path ahead,” the letter says.

Waddell said association members wanted the meeting. Gray, NCPBA Executive Director John Midgette and association representative Steve Anthony were present, according to the letter. Issues addressed included staffing shortages, pay disparities and “staffing challenges,” which the letter said impact WPD members on a daily basis.

The promotion process of the department was also discussed. According to the letter, Saffo listened “carefully” to the concerns, particularly when he mentioned that the operation of the promotions was “fair and transparent.” Saffo did not respond to a request for comment Thursday.

Another important part of the meeting was the recently completed, city-funded project, the letter said. US ISS report. That investigation As reported by WECT Last week, complaints about a hostile work environment were substantiated against WPD leadership, following a written complaint filed by retired Capt. Mike Fanta earlier this year.

According to the letter, NCPBA has been “relentless” in its efforts to obtain the report, believing it contains “important information that directly affects the integrity and welfare” of WPD and city residents. WECT’s request for a copy of the report was denied.

“This is a fight for the principles of responsibility, justice and respect, which we will defend with unwavering strength,” the letter says. “Stand tall, remain determined, and know that our mission has only just begun.”

The southeast chapter has more than 1,100 members, consisting of sworn and retired law enforcement officers from New Hanover, Brunswick and Pender Counties, Gray said. This includes nearly 200 members who work for the Wilmington Police Department.

NCPBA declined to comment further Thursday, saying only that the association was actively communicating with Saffo’s office regarding the concerns they raised.

Waddell declined to speak on camera Thursday but issued the following statement via text message:

“I firmly believe that it is the City Council’s responsibility to maintain the highest standards of accountability for those in leadership positions in our city’s government. Recently, at the request of members of the Police Benevolent Association, a meeting was held where various concerns were raised regarding the Wilmington Police Department, including compensation, benefits, promotion structure and leadership within the department. The foundation of effective leadership is transparency, accountability, and the ability to respond to the needs and concerns of our community. When issues are brought to our attention, especially those affecting the well-being and morale of our public safety personnel, it is critical that we address them openly and comprehensively, within the limits of what is legally permissible.

Citizens have the right to trust that their leaders both listen and take meaningful action on public safety issues. In this process, transparency not only promotes trust but also strengthens the integrity of our institutions. I am committed to advocating for our first responders and all members of the organization who strive every day to make our city a safer, better place, ensuring their voices are heard and working toward constructive solutions that strengthen the safety and trust of our entire community. “

WECT is still working to learn the findings of the U.S. ISS investigation and city leadership’s definitive response.

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