NEPBA Statement Regarding Ongoing Contract Negotiations in Amesbury
Nov 6, 2026
The New England Police Benevolent Association (NEPBA) stands firmly behind the dedicated men and women of Amesbury Patrol Officers Local 144 and Superior Officers Local 143 as they continue to face an unacceptable breakdown in communication, accountability, and leadership throughout their ongoing contract negotiations with the City of Amesbury.
For more than 16 months, these officers have worked without new collective bargaining agreements. Despite repeated efforts by union leadership to negotiate in good faith, present reasonable proposals, and find common ground, the process has been plagued by conflicting information, shifting positions, and a troubling lack of coordination within City Hall.
Perhaps most concerning is the apparent disconnect between Mayor Kassandra Gove and the very individuals entrusted to negotiate on her behalf. Recent discussions with the Mayor revealed significant discrepancies between what City representatives communicated at the bargaining table and what the Mayor understood had been authorized. Union leadership was also surprised to learn that the Mayor had reportedly been told the unions were not bringing proposals forward, despite a documented history demonstrating otherwise.
That raises a fundamental question: Who is actually directing negotiations in Amesbury, and why are the City's own representatives seemingly unable to communicate a consistent position?
The conduct of the City's outside labor counsel, Attorney David Jenkins of KP Law, has only compounded these concerns. Confrontational exchanges, inconsistent proposals, and attempts to intertwine unrelated disciplinary matters with collective bargaining have done little to foster the productive and professional relationship these negotiations demand.
We recognize that municipalities face financial challenges. However, financial constraints do not excuse poor communication, contradictory positions, or a bargaining process that leaves public safety professionals questioning whether City leadership even understands what is being negotiated on its behalf.
These officers are expected to demonstrate professionalism, sound judgment, and accountability every time they report for duty. It is not unreasonable to expect those same standards from the elected officials and legal representatives responsible for negotiating their contracts.
This is not a dispute over wages and benefits. It is about respect, fairness, recruitment, retention, and the City's commitment to the men and women entrusted with protecting its residents.
Mayor Gove has acknowledged communication failures and indicated a willingness to review the situation. That acknowledgment is a start, but acknowledgment without meaningful corrective action accomplishes nothing.
The NEPBA is calling on Mayor Gove to take immediate ownership of these negotiations, establish clear and consistent direction for her bargaining team, and demonstrate a genuine commitment to reaching fair agreements with both unions.
Our members have fulfilled their obligations to the City of Amesbury every single day, regardless of the uncertainty surrounding their contracts. They have continued to answer calls, protect residents, and serve their community without hesitation.
They have done their jobs. It is time for City leadership to do theirs.
The NEPBA will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with our Amesbury patrol and superior officers until they receive the respect, fair treatment, and contracts they deserve.
