By AP/KWMU
St. Louis, MO – Rank and file St. Louis police officers will hold a no-confidence vote on their chief, Joe Mokwa.
Leaders of the union that represents the 1,200 or so officers say they wanted to put the question to members.
Union president Kevin Ahlbrand says they don't necessarily want Mokwa fired, they just want to express their frustration with issues like staffing levels, salaries, and health insurance costs.
The vote would not be binding, but organizers say it would send a message that officers are unhappy with the chief's performance.
Mokwa, who has been chief since 2001, says he understands their needs and acknowledges their frustration; he adds he's been working hard to support his officers and supporters higher salaries.
The result of the secret ballot should be known within the next month and will be forwarded to the St. Louis Police Board, which has already said it will stand behind Mokwa.