ALBERT LEA--- At Monday’s city council meeting, Albert Lea leaders and the police teamsters union reached an understanding.
The understanding saves the job of the newest officer on board, Steve Charboneau.
All council members voted to transfer $35,000 from the city's contingency fund to the police department fund.
The teamsters will concede the same amount. To make up the $35,000 the other officers are willing to take 16 hours of unpaid time and reduce their uniform allowance.
Steve Charboneau said, “I'm relieved. I'm glad the city gets to continue to have the public safety they've had the last 2 years or beyond that. I'm glad that I get to serve the community for years to come.”
Officer Charboneau said he's looking forward to getting a full 8 hours of sleep, and not waking up, worrying about losing his job.
