Port Royal Seeks New Police Chief to Address Community Growth Challenges

Port Royal Searches for New Police Chief Amid Community Growth

Port Royal, a charming town that’s been making headlines for its rapid growth, is on the hunt for a new police chief. Town officials have highlighted the need for a leader who can formulate a strategic plan to help the police department manage the challenges that come with being one of Beaufort County’s fastest-growing communities. With the town’s population swelling by more than 2,000 residents from 2020 to 2023, currently standing at 16,287 as of July 2023, Port Royal is feeling the pressure.

Meeting the Finalists

Just recently, three finalists for the police chief position introduced themselves to the community during a public forum. Residents gathered to learn about the candidates’ professional backgrounds and personal stories, while also posing questions to the Town Council about how they would tackle community policing, recruit and retain police officers, and develop effective strategic plans.

The finalists include:

• Capt. Andre Massey, an operations captain with 26 years of experience at the Port Royal Police Department.
• Kevin Pierce, a recently retired chief from South Coatesville, Pennsylvania, who spent years as a Pennsylvania State Trooper.
• Jeffrey Meyers, who retired in August 2023 as deputy chief from the Fort Myers, Florida Police Department.

Community’s Concerns and Trends

Town Manager Van Willis emphasized that this hiring is happening at a crucial time for the police department. With the increasing number of service calls in the community, the police force is striving hard to keep up with demand. Port Royal has even enacted a moratorium on new apartment constructions to better manage the growth and its implications.

The finalists were a result of a thorough nationwide search that initially attracted 35 applicants to replace the retiring Alan Beach, who stepped down earlier this month. During their introductions, the three candidates shared not just their professional credentials but also personal tidbits that made the evening more enjoyable. For example, Pierce revealed that he’s a professional vocalist and became known as the “singing trooper” during his time with the State Troopers, entertaining crowds at events like NASCAR races. For those curious about an entertainer in blue, he even brought his talents to the Little League World Series!

On the other hand, Meyers, a fan of the Cleveland Browns, expressed some light-heartedness about being “too young to retire” and shared that he enjoys playing pickleball in his leisure time. Capt. Massey has a background as a U.S. Marine and enjoys barbecuing as well as taking cruises with his wife.

Addressing Recruitment Challenges

One of the key topics raised during the discussions was recruitment and retention in law enforcement. Councilman Jorge Guerrero acknowledged that officers in Port Royal are working diligently and asked the finalists for their plans in this critical area. Notably, Meyers pointed out a stark reality: “No one wants to be a police officer anymore.” Despite this, he shared that his previous department saw success through a dedicated “pathway to policing” initiative aimed at young people in local schools, which he believes is essential for re-establishing interest in the profession.

Capt. Massey mentioned the importance of recruiting from local resources such as military bases and colleges, emphasizing the need for officers who can communicate with the town’s growing Hispanic population. He suggested offering stipends for officers with language skills and higher education, as a way to foster loyalty within the department. Meanwhile, Pierce highlighted the need for proactive recruitment initiatives, recalling his involvement in a summer police camp that featured guest speakers from various law enforcement agencies.

Decision Coming Soon

As Town Manager Van Willis considers the insights shared by the candidates, he plans to make a decision by Monday. The choice of a new police chief is expected to have a distinct impact on how Port Royal navigates its growth while prioritizing community safety and engagement.

In coming times, residents of Port Royal eagerly await the arrival of their new top cop, hoping to find someone who not only understands policing but also values the vibrant local culture and community spirit.