For the first time, a state arbitrator will be brought in to settle contract negotiations between the New Castle Police Department and the town.

The New Castle PBA is accusing town leaders of not negotiating with them in good faith. At the center of the contract conflict is raises. The police department wants a 4 percent raise, which it says is in line with other communities. However, the town is only offering a 3.5 percent raise and a slash to the department?s medical benefits.

The arbitrator will settle the conflict in March and that decision will be final.