‘Investing in the future:’ City of Jacksonville Beach announces increased police funding, better pay

JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. — The Jacksonville Beach Police Department plans on paying new officers more money.

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On Monday night (Aug. 19), city council approved “significant investments” in the police force. This investment includes:

• Starting pay for our officers is jumping from $65,312 up to $72,595 with qualifications
• The department is adding 4 new officers to our force
• A new program will sponsor and pay for cadets through the police academy
• Upgrades to the downtown camera system and the addition of new license plate readers
• Addition of a new SWAT van

“These new enhancements are a testament to our commitment to public safety and to recognizing the hard work and dedication of our officers,” the City of Jacksonville Beach said in a statement. “Jacksonville Beach safety remains a top priority for us all, and this investment ensures we have the best team in place, now and in the future, to protect our community.”

A new salary structure for officers is meant to support recruitment and retention the city said on their Facebook page.

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