Fort Pierce officers demand better pay to ensure community safety and recruit new chief

Public safety took center stage at the Fort Pierce City Commission meeting on August 18, 2025, as officers voiced urgent concerns over low salaries and staffing shortages. A police officer highlighted the critical link between officer pay and community safety, stating, “When Fort Pierce pays officers the least, we lose them to surrounding agencies that value their lives more.” The officer emphasized that the community suffers when law enforcement is understaffed and underpaid, urging the commission to recognize the sacrifices made by those in uniform.

The discussion also touched on the ongoing police chief recruitment process, with updates on job postings and salary ranges. The city manager reported a proposed salary range of $128,250 to $212,000, with the mid-range set at approximately $170,000. This comes as the city seeks to attract qualified candidates amid concerns about retaining current officers.

In addition to police staffing issues, residents raised concerns about illegal dumping and trash management in Fort Pierce. One resident pointed out that the city is struggling with not only illegal dumping but also the influx of homeless individuals from neighboring areas, which exacerbates the problem. He called for increased patrols and better management of these issues, linking them to the overall safety and cleanliness of the community.

Commissioners echoed these sentiments, with one urging the need for a maintenance plan for streetlights, which have been neglected for years. The discussion highlighted the importance of addressing these infrastructure issues to enhance public safety and community aesthetics.

As the meeting concluded, the commission acknowledged the need for further dialogue on these pressing issues, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and data-driven decision-making to improve Fort Pierce's public safety and quality of life.