Fort Pierce approves David Smith as police chief at $190,000 salary; swearing-in set for Feb. 2

The Fort Pierce City Commission on a unanimous roll-call vote approved an employment contract for David Smith to serve as the city's next police chief.

Jared Sorensen, the city's HR manager, told the commission the contract addresses three priorities raised by the candidate: an agreed salary, accrual rates for vacation and sick leave, and assignment of a marked police vehicle with lights and siren. "This is the final approval," Sorensen said. "If you guys confirm this, then you'll have your new police chief February 2." He later stated the salary: "A $190,000 a year." (Jared Sorensen)

Commissioners used the discussion to check details and to reassure residents about continuity in the police department. Commissioner Broderick praised Chief Bridal and department staff for managing an interim period, saying the transition was "a major exercise for the city" and crediting staff, outside consultants and the existing chief for a successful process. Mayor Hudson and others also thanked community members who participated in the hiring process, which officials said produced useful public input.

HR said Smith will arrive before Feb. 1 to settle housing and onboarding; Sorensen said the swearing-in ceremony will be Feb. 2 at 9 a.m. The commission took a motion to approve the contract, called the roll and recorded unanimous "yes" votes from Commissioners Broderick, Gaines and Johnson and Mayor Hudson.

By approving the contract the commission finalized the personnel action and scheduled the public swearing-in. The meeting record did not include text of the full employment agreement in the transcript; Sorensen summarized its main points during the presentation.