The Largo City Commission and Finance Advisory Board convened on July 25, 2025, to discuss pressing community issues, including public safety staffing and recovery efforts from last year's hurricane season.

A significant focus of the meeting was the staffing challenges faced by the Largo Police Department. Currently, the department is authorized to have 159 sworn officers but is operating with approximately 139 due to various factors, including training requirements and increased use of Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) by officers. The department is seeking to address this shortfall by proposing the addition of overhire positions, which would help fill the gap and ensure adequate staffing levels for community safety. The Chief of Police emphasized the importance of maintaining a well-staffed department to meet the growing demands of the community and to effectively combat modern crime, which increasingly involves technology.

In addition to staffing, the police department is exploring the integration of new technologies, such as drones and real-time crime centers, to enhance public safety. These innovations aim to improve response times and operational efficiency, allowing officers to focus on critical tasks while leveraging technology for support.

The meeting also highlighted ongoing recovery efforts from the previous hurricane season. The city is adapting to new state regulations regarding property damage assessments, which will simplify the rebuilding process for residents whose homes were affected. This change is expected to reduce costs and streamline the recovery for homeowners, making it easier for them to remodel or repair their properties.

As the city continues to grow and evolve, the discussions at this meeting reflect a commitment to addressing community needs through effective public safety measures and responsive recovery strategies. The outcomes of these initiatives will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Largo and ensuring the well-being of its residents.