Pompano Beach officials are seeking input from residents on whether the city should establish its own police department and end its contract with the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO).
Currently, BSO provides law enforcement services to the community, but city leaders have been weighing the possibility of creating an independent police force. On Thursday, officials held the first of several town hall meetings to gauge public opinion on the matter.
In a news release ahead of the meeting, city officials emphasized the importance of community involvement: “This is a major decision, and the City is committed to ensuring that residents play an active role in shaping the future of policing and safety in their neighborhoods.”
The meetings are designed to give residents the opportunity to learn how public safety services currently operate, understand potential alternatives, and ask questions directly to public safety experts.
Pompano Beach is not alone in reconsidering its relationship with BSO. Recently, Deerfield Beach officials and BSO clashed publicly over pay raises for deputies, with Sheriff Gregory Tony blaming the city manager— a retired BSO deputy— for stalled negotiations. In a social media video, Tony said, “You tell me if I should go absolutely nuclear on this and destroy him, because I have the power of this office to do a lot of damage to individuals, but I have safeguard and protected my personal temperament.”
The dispute revolves around pay raises for BSO deputies, which Tony wants to approve but city officials say exceed the previously agreed-upon cap. Earlier this month, Deerfield Beach entered a “transition period” to continue receiving BSO services for up to 24 months while reviewing options for both police and fire services. Other Broward cities, including Pembroke Park and Lauderhill, have also ended contracts with the Sheriff’s Office.
Pompano Beach officials said they will host another in-person town hall on Oct. 11, followed by two virtual meetings on Oct. 13 and Oct. 15. Residents are encouraged to participate and share their thoughts on the future of policing in the city.
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