JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — All three Duval County beaches police chiefs said they're dealing with a shortage of officers and are working to recruits more.
On Wednesday night, the chiefs got together to discuss department improvements and how they're dealing with public safety issues.
Twenty-two sworn officers currently work at Neptune Beach Police Department. A small number the Department is looking to grow.
Operations Commander Liam Toal is in charge of recruiting and hiring.
"We’ve been over quite a few recruiting trips over the last two years," said Toal.
Toal said they offer an aggressive salary, benefits and signing bonuses.
Neptune Beach Police Department's starting salary is $57,775.23. Atlantic Beach is $55,915.82 and Jax Beach is $54,662.40.
While Jacksonville Sheriff's Office starting salary is more than all three beach department's with $65,000.
Something beaches departments feel makes it harder for their recruitment efforts.
“Three Beach agencies have to compete with the Sheriff’s office. For us to keep pace with them is hugely important," said Victor Gualillo, Atlantic Beach Police Chief.
“Now that JSO has reinstated pension it’s going to be a challenge it’s going to be a numbers game to go back and get creative to recruiting different folks," said Michael Key Jr., Neptune Beach Police Chief.
As Neptune Beach continues recruiting, they said it's important to find the right people for the job.
"We’re recruiting talent out here because we’re recruiting not mass numbers but individuals and personalities. Those people understand benefits, packages are sometimes better than starting pay," said Key.
According to NBPD, the department has been recruiting in academies all throughout the state of Florida and even parts of Georgia.
If you're interested in becoming a police officer with Neptune Beach, you can go to their website.