St. Louis Police Chief Contract Extended to 2030 Despite Mayor Objections

The St. Louis Board of Police Commissioners has extended Police Chief Robert Tracy’s contract through October 2030, raising his annual base salary by $110,000 to $295,000. The board said interest from other cities and reported declines since Tracy took over in 2023—45% in overall crime, 43% in homicides and 60% in juvenile shooting incidents—prompted the move. Board President Chris Saracino called the deal an investment in public safety and the city’s future, while Tracy said St. Louis is home and he is grateful to continue leading the department. The police officers’ association criticized the extension, saying civilian staff have worked without a contract since June 2025 and officers are paid less than counterparts in St. Louis County. Mayor Cara Spencer also objected, arguing that the salary increase and other reported contract benefits divert limited funds from hiring more officers and faulting the board for negotiating the deal in a secretive manner.