From the Columbian:

A state arbitrator has settled the long standing dispute between the city of Vancouver and the Police Commanders Union. The Commanders wages will remain frozen until July 2011 when they will receive a 5.1% wage increase.

“The arbitrator cannot consider a public entity’s ability to pay as part of the arbitration process.”

“The average member of the Police Command union made $108,984, including overtime, sick, vacation and shift differential pay. The increase will cost the city $26,233 in 2011 and $52,465 in 2012, not including overtime.”

Also on July 1, commanders will begin contributing 10% towards their dependents health insurance premiums. The city has been paying all of the commanders premiums and all but $61 of dependent premiums.

The Columbian also states, “The decision may be a window into the much higher-stakes arbitration between the city and the 179-member Fire Suppression union, set for June 1 through 3.” The Firefighters Union is seeking “8.2 percent wage increase immediately and another 2 percent hike in 2011 expected cost Vancouver $3.2 million.”

The latest records I find show Clark Counties unemployment rate still at 13% or slightly higher.