The Fort Pierce City Commission held a regular meeting on August 11, 2025, focusing on various key issues, including staffing levels within the police department and the need for future space planning.

The meeting commenced with a discussion led by the police chief regarding an external assessment of the department. The chief emphasized the importance of having an outside agency evaluate their operations, noting that while some recommendations were accepted, others were not due to differing perspectives on staffing needs. The chief committed to providing a detailed recap of the assessment findings, including vacant positions and their implications for the budget.

Commissioners expressed concerns about the number of unfilled positions within the police department and the impact on service delivery. One commissioner requested a comprehensive overview of critical staffing levels and the financial implications of filling these roles, particularly in relation to the upcoming fiscal year 2026 budget.

The chief acknowledged the department's space constraints, referencing a study from 2006 that indicated insufficient space for operations. He highlighted ongoing discussions about potential relocations within the city to alleviate overcrowding but stressed the need for a long-term capital plan to address future growth and space requirements. The chief noted that as the city expands, the police department will require additional resources and facilities.

The meeting also introduced Sylvia Santiago as the new executive assistant to the police chief, marking a positive addition to the department's leadership team.

In closing, the commission recognized the importance of ongoing monitoring of implemented recommendations from the assessment to ensure continuous improvement. The chief affirmed his commitment to working collaboratively with the commission and staff to enhance departmental operations.

The meeting concluded with a brief recess before moving on to the consent agenda, where commissioners reviewed various items for approval. The discussions underscored the city's proactive approach to addressing staffing and operational challenges within the police department while planning for future growth.