Fort Pierce city officials are grappling with significant challenges in staffing and funding for the police department, as highlighted during the City Commission's regular meeting on May 12, 2025. Chief of Police and his command staff presented a detailed overview of the department's current state, emphasizing the urgent need for resources to address ongoing issues.

The police department is currently facing a staffing shortage, with only 118 of the 141 authorized sworn officers in place, representing a 17% vacancy rate. Recruitment efforts have yielded only 11 new hires from 70 applicants processed since May of the previous year. Major Santiago, who oversees Support Services, noted that the department is actively seeking innovative recruitment strategies and enhancing training programs to improve retention and morale among officers.

A key point of discussion was the impact of competitive salaries offered by neighboring jurisdictions, which have led to experienced officers leaving Fort Pierce for better-paying positions. The Chief expressed concern over the department's ability to retain talent, as officers can earn significantly more in nearby cities, exacerbating the staffing crisis.

The meeting also addressed the findings of a recent study by the Center for Public Safety Management (CPSM), which provided recommendations for improving police operations. While some suggestions have been implemented, such as enhanced training and recruitment processes, many require additional funding and resources that are currently lacking.

Commissioners voiced the need for a comprehensive follow-up on the CPSM recommendations, emphasizing the importance of understanding which "low-hanging fruit" initiatives have already been addressed and identifying critical areas that require immediate funding. The Chief acknowledged the necessity of a collaborative approach with the city to secure the resources needed for effective policing.

As Fort Pierce continues to grow, with an expected increase of over 10,000 residents, the demand for police services will only rise. City officials are now tasked with prioritizing budget allocations to ensure the police department can meet the community's needs while maintaining officer morale and operational effectiveness. The urgency of these discussions underscores the critical role of adequate funding and staffing in ensuring public safety in Fort Pierce.