Dear Editor,
As the former chief of the Key West Police Department, I have a unique understanding of the structure and needs of our police department. There are many needs.
The City of Key West is proposing to create a new deputy police chief position. This position would have a starting salary of at least $130,000 plus benefits and would grow each fiscal year.
It is my professional opinion that this proposed position is not needed. Rather than use $130,000 to hire an unneeded deputy chief, use that money to provide the officers with equipment and training that is needed. Use that money to give the officers pay increases to better afford them the opportunity to live in an increasingly unaffordable community. Use that money to hire a new officer who can make an impact on the streets by enforcing traffic laws and patrolling our neighborhoods.
I have met with the city manager and police chief about the proposed position and remain unconvinced that this new position is needed. If the city believes the core needs of the department are being met, then I suggest using the $130,000 to reduce the proposed tax increases.
Sincerely,
Donie Lee
Chief of Police, Ret.
