Fort Pierce approves employment contract for police chief David Smith; swearing-in set for Feb. 2

The Fort Pierce City Commission on a unanimous roll call approved an employment contract with David Smith to serve as the city’s next chief of police.

Jared Sorensen, the city’s human resources manager, told the commission that the agreement addressed three priorities raised by the candidate: salary, leave accrual rates and provision of a marked police vehicle. Sorensen said Smith already secured an apartment in Fort Pierce and would be in town before Feb. 1; staff indicated the swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for Feb. 2, and that the time was later set for 9 a.m.

"This is the final approval," Sorensen said. "If you guys confirm this, then you'll have your new police chief February 2." He also disclosed the offered salary: "A $190,000 a year." (Jared Sorensen, HR manager)

Commissioners repeatedly thanked interim leadership for managing the department during the transition. Several speakers singled out the interim chief and command staff for stabilizing operations while the recruitment proceeded.

The clerk introduced the item after it was pulled from the consent agenda for clarification. After public remarks and the staff summary, a motion to approve the contract was made, seconded and carried on the roll call recorded by the clerk.

The commission did not record additional substantive contract terms in the meeting transcript beyond the items summarized by Sorensen. The commission indicated the swearing-in will be a public event at City Hall on Feb. 2 at 9 a.m.; staff noted details of the program are being finalized.

What happens next: With the contract approved, the city plans a public swearing-in and transition events; staff will finalize program details and notify the public when arrangements are complete.