Longboat Key Kiwanis Club Members Welcome Increased Police Presence Along Gulf of Mexico Drive

Members of the Longboat Key Kiwanis Club expressed their appreciation for the noticeable increase in police cars patrolling Gulf of Mexico Drive, noting that the heightened presence has made them feel safer. This discussion took place during the club’s first bimonthly meeting of the season, held on September 19 at the Lazy Lobster.

Longboat Key Police Chief George Turner was the featured guest speaker at the event. Chief Turner informed the Kiwanians that the police department, after months of operating with a reduced staff, had successfully filled its three vacant positions. As of July, the department had only 16 officers, but with the vacancies now filled, the department is fully staffed. This increased manpower allows Chief Turner to assign three officers along the island at all times, a step aimed at improving officer safety and maintaining public order.

Chief Turner also introduced the club to the department’s new take-home car program, a significant development for the officers. He explained that Longboat Key had been one of the few police departments in Florida that did not provide take-home cars for its officers, a factor that made recruitment more difficult. Officers previously had to commute using their personal vehicles, a costly and inconvenient requirement. The new program is expected to aid recruitment efforts and improve retention among officers.

The Kiwanis Club meeting also served as an opportunity for Chief Turner to connect with the public and address any concerns the community might have about law enforcement on the island.

Additionally, Longboat Key Commissioner Gary Coffin was in attendance and informed the club members about three upcoming open commissioner positions in the next election. He encouraged residents to consider running for office to help shape the future of Longboat Key.

In other club news, the Longboat Key Kiwanis Club is preparing to elect a new president within the coming month, as current president Chris Sachs is stepping down after completing his one-year term.