AUSTIN, Texas — After nearly a year and a half without a long-term contract, the City of Austin and the Austin Police Association (APA) are getting closer to finalizing a new deal.
However, there are still hurdles in the way.
In late August, a Travis County Judge ruled to do away with the G-file, which are confidential files about alleged misconduct from police officers.
The mayor said he would not appeal the ruling, and the focus between the city and APA since has been on how to move forward.
The argument, according to APA President Michael Bullock, is over the language about the files.
The city and APA met on Tuesday to discuss those issues, but no decision was made.
Bullock told KVUE through text message that they had hoped there was progress in reaching a tentative agreement, but negotiations are "on thin ice."
KVUE reached out to the City of Austin on where they stand with negotiations. A city spokesperson responded with the following statement:
“The City appreciates the continued good discussions that we are having with the Austin Police Association and believes we continue to make progress. However, until we have a tentative agreement, it would be premature for us to talk about the process, timing, or next steps."
In regard to the G-file, the following statement was issued:
“Staff is currently having the necessary discussions related to the court’s decision, issued late Friday, on the G-file. We are working through the decision’s impact - including immediate next steps such as consultation with Council – its effect on negotiations, and logistical and technical ramifications. We will provide more details as soon as possible.”
Bullock said APA is waiting for the city's next move.
There has not yet been a date set for another meeting to negotiate.