Commission discusses police retention, new hire and upgrades to technology

Commissioners spent a portion of the strategic session on public-safety staffing and technology needs after staff introduced a recently sworn officer.

Heidi introduced a new officer (Kelly), and Chief Keith Kerr outlined her background: "Kelly comes to us from the Jupiter Police Department. She served there 29 years," he said, and described field-training arrangements and cross-jurisdictional training opportunities. The chief and commissioners agreed the town gains by recruiting experienced officers who bring advanced training and regional contacts even if starting pay cannot match larger nearby jurisdictions.

Heidi noted the town built an 8% pay increase into last year’s budget but said further incremental adjustments will be considered: the town should benchmark starting salaries and consider phased pay raises to improve retention. "We did build in an 8% increase this past year, but we're not there yet," she said, and commissioners asked for comparative data on salaries in nearby towns.

Technology and equipment needs were also discussed. Staff said many officer laptops are outdated or unreliable and recommended a hardware refresh; commissioners asked staff to identify a costed list of upgrades and to map an integrated camera and communications plan to improve response times and community safety. The chief confirmed officers currently receive uniforms and vests from the town and that advanced training is available through regional partners and facilities.

No formal personnel actions or pay changes were adopted at the workshop; commissioners directed staff to include personnel and technology cost estimates in the upcoming budget workshop.