Posted on June 29, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE…
Town of Berlin Announces Retention Bonuses for Berlin Police Officers
BERLIN, MD – The Town of Berlin, with the unanimous approval of the Mayor and Council, is pleased to announce the immediate distribution of one-time retention bonuses to the current sworn officers of the Berlin Police Department.
This initiative required no additional taxpayer funding and was made possible through the reallocation of existing salary savings resulting from vacant sworn officer positions during Fiscal Year 2026. During this period, the Department’s sworn officers stepped forward to fill operational gaps by assuming additional responsibilities, working additional shifts when needed, and ensuring the Town continued to receive the high level of police services the community expects and deserves. Bonus amounts were determined based on each officer’s eligibility and employment status during the fiscal year.
The Fiscal Year 2026 budget funded fifteen sworn officer positions. As vacancies occurred throughout the year, the Berlin Police Department’s staffing decreased to its current complement of nine sworn officers, resulting in salary savings within the Department’s existing budget. At the request of Chief Howard S. Drewer and with the support of the Mayor and Council, a portion of those existing funds was reinvested in the Department’s current sworn personnel as a one-time retention initiative recognizing their continued dedication, professionalism, and service to the Berlin community.
Retaining experienced police officers benefits the entire community. Officers who remain with the Department develop lasting relationships with residents, businesses, schools, and community organizations while developing valuable institutional knowledge of the Town they serve. These relationships foster trust, enhance public safety, reduce recruitment and training costs, and ensure continuity in the delivery of professional police services.
Chief Howard S. Drewer stated:
“Our officers have remained committed to serving the Town of Berlin while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and public service. This retention initiative recognizes their dedication and reflects the Town’s commitment to investing in the people who have chosen to serve this community. I am grateful to the Mayor and Council for their support and for recognizing the value of retaining experienced law enforcement professionals.”
“Where Town Meets Coast”
The Berlin Police Department extends its sincere appreciation to the Mayor and Council for their continued commitment to public safety and their support of this initiative. The Department also thanks the citizens of Berlin for the trust, encouragement, and support they show our officers each day. That partnership between the community and its police officers remains one of the Department’s greatest strengths.
For additional information, please contact:
Chief Howard S. Drewer Berlin Police Department (410) 641-1333 hdrewer@berlinmdpd.org
Categories: News
