Winter Haven Residents Sought For Public Safety Leadership Council

WINTER HAVEN, FL — Winter Haven Public Safety Director Charlie Bird is seeking residents of Winter Haven, who are over the age of 18, to participate in the Winter Haven Public Safety Leadership Council.

The council will consist of approximately 20 members who will serve voluntarily and meet every other Tuesday from 6 to 9 p.m. with Bird, Police Chief David Brannan, Fire Chief Sonny Emery and agency members from both police and fire for a total of 10 meetings. The first meeting is Jan. 17. Participants will be asked to complete assignments and provide feedback on department operations.

Members of the council will experience hands-on activities over the course of the 10 weeks while gaining a much better understanding of what it takes to operate municipal police and fire departments.

Council members will participate in tours at the Polk County Jail book-in, Central County Jail and the courthouse. Participants will be required to serve specified timeframes at the Polk County Sheriff's Emergency Communications Center and complete a ride-along with both police and fire.

Participants have proven to be a valuable community resource in advising on topics that affect the department, Bird said.

Those interested in serving on the Public Safety Leadership Council can request an application by calling 863-291-6178. Applications can also be obtained by going to the department website at www.WinterHavenPD.com and clicking the Community Services link on the homepage or send an email to jbrown@mywinterhaven.com.

Applications must be submitted no later than Dec. 1 to be considered for the upcoming council. Selected residents will be notified no later than Dec. 15.