Cops go to polls today to elect FOP prez

You talk about an election that could be laced with drama in this city, and the looming 2011 mayoral race immediately springs to mind.

But it turns out that there's no need to wait that long for a political prizefight with some intrigue: Today is Election Day for the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 5.

In one corner is John McNesby, the outspoken 44-year-old who has served as the police union president for the past three years.

In the other corner is Frank Zampogna, 52, who ran against McNesby three years ago and lost by a wide margin.

Old pals, they are not.

"We're not going to be exchanging Christmas cards anytime soon," McNesby said.

So here's the skinny:

Under McNesby's tenure, an arbitrator awarded the union a five-year contract that included a 7 percent raise and abolished the much-loathed residency requirement, which for decades prevented cops from living outside the city.

McNesby said he worked with politicians to create laws that get tough on any thug who takes aim at a cop, and other legislation that ensures better benefits for families of slain officers.

Since McNesby has been in charge of the FOP, six officers have died in the line of duty. Some of their relatives, he said, will be out supporting him today.

"I feel confident," McNesby said. "We worked hard the entire three years, and I believe we have the support of the membership."

Zampogna, who was seriously injured during an on-duty car crash in 2007, said the five-year contract is nothing to rave about because it allows the city to impose up to 30 furlough days a year on cops.

The same contract, he noted, could force younger officers into a pension plan with lesser benefits. He said he would fight for better benefits, especially for retirees.

"I feel the members deserve better," he said. "Everywhere I go, [cops] tell me they don't feel comfortable dealing with the FOP."

Zampogna said he was denied a request to have access to the FOP's mailing list earlier this year and plans to file a petition to overturn the election if he loses.

McNesby called Zampogna's claim "nonsense" and said he offered to use a mutual mailing list with him.

Zampogna also said that Law Enforcement Health Benefits Inc., the firm that administers the FOP's health plan, has twice sent out mailings endorsing McNesby, even though as a nonpolitical organization, it is not supposed to stump for candidates.