Pompano Beach city commissioners have voted to approve a three-year contract extension with the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) for law enforcement services. The decision comes amid an ongoing debate over whether the city should establish its own municipal police department.

Contract Details

The current contract is valued at approximately $64.9 million, and the proposed contract for the next fiscal year would increase to about $71 million. City leaders estimate that launching a new municipal police department would cost roughly $145 million.

Commissioner Darlene Smith expressed support for the BSO, stating that the sheriff’s office has consistently delivered quality policing services. Vice Mayor Allison Fournier, however, pointed to the city’s fire department as an example of successful local management and suggested that a city-run police force could be a worthwhile long-term goal.

Community Reaction

Residents who attended the commission meeting expressed differing views on the issue. Some argued that the city should have greater local control over its law enforcement leadership, while others believed that the partnership with BSO should continue.

Broward County Sheriff Gregory Tony said that BSO would support the city if commissioners ultimately decide to create their own police department. For now, BSO will continue patrolling Pompano Beach under the extended agreement.

Original reporting: NBC6 Miami — read the source article.