Probation officers overwhelmingly OK new contract

But some department veterans say the agreement is a sham deal

City probation officers have overwhelmingly approved a contract with pay increases that conform to the civilian pattern but also includes considerable back payments and lump-sum ratification bonuses. 

In a high turnout vote held last Wednesday afternoon, 430 officers approved the deal, while 97 opposed it, according to the United Probation Officers Association, which represents roughly 400 probation officers and 165 supervising probation officers.  Among those opposed to the agreement, though, is a faction of veteran officers who called the deal insulting and a poor reflection of their effort and what is increasingly expected of them.