During the City of North Port City Commission Workshop held on January 6, 2025, public safety emerged as a central theme, highlighting the increasing demands on the North Port Police Department (NPPD) and the urgent need for infrastructure improvements. The meeting revealed that NPPD responded to nearly 90,000 calls in 2023, marking a 14.5% increase from the previous year. This surge in calls underscores the growing need for enhanced public safety resources as the city anticipates a population growth from 100,000 residents by 2026 to potentially 250,000 by 2070.

The discussions centered around the proposed construction of a new police headquarters, which is projected to cost approximately $115 million. The facility is designed to accommodate the city's expanding needs, with plans for 108,000 square feet of space, including an additional 30,000 square feet for future growth. Currently, the city is only 30% built out, indicating significant development potential and the necessity for adequate public safety infrastructure.

City officials acknowledged the challenges in securing funding for such a large-scale project. Historically, funding for infrastructure projects of this magnitude has relied on long-term bonds, and the city is exploring various financing options, including debt issuance, surtax rearrangements, and state appropriations. A key component of the funding strategy involves a potential voter referendum to secure the necessary financial backing from residents.

The city has already made strides in preparation for the project, including purchasing land for the new headquarters and achieving a 100% design readiness status. However, officials emphasized the importance of demonstrating a comprehensive funding plan to move forward. State representatives have expressed support for the project, and the city plans to apply for state grants, with a deadline approaching in March.

As North Port continues to grow, the discussions at this workshop reflect a proactive approach to addressing public safety needs and ensuring that the city is equipped to handle future demands. The anticipated next steps include finalizing funding strategies and engaging the community in discussions about the proposed referendum, which will be crucial for the project's realization.