Prior to the program, Plant City Rotary Foundation president Charles White held the annual meeting of the Foundation. Last year’s meeting minutes were approved, the Treasurer report was submitted, and the following slate of officers was unanimously voted in:
President – Charles White
Treasurer – Don Stine
Secretary – Steve Soloman
Past Rotary presidents Jodi Stevens and Doug Watson will also serve on the 5-member board.
Thanks to these fine Rotarians for their service in this division of our Club!
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This week’s meeting featured Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister, presented by Rotarian and Hillsborough County Colonel Kyle Robinson.
Sheriff Chronister was appointed three years ago by Governor Scott and then elected in 2018. With more people moving into Hillsborough County than any other central Florida region, the sheriff knew he had a big task to keep the community safe, and in particular, those who are most vulnerable: children and elderly.
Chad’s approach to this mission was to be “smart on crime.” Yes, criminals who should not walk freely should be incarcerated, but Chad also worked with the department to prevent and reduce crimes before they happen. Many crimes are committed due to pre-existing social issues, and are often not committed by “bad” people. In an effort to curb those crimes, the department has added social service resources and officer training. This includes mental health counselors, a veteran’s resurgence program, and vocational training resources. These types of programs are designed to stabilize individuals so that they can be gainfully employed and productive citizens.
The office is also as diverse as it has ever been, with a 60% diversity rate. This means the sheriff’s office better reflects the community it serves.
These initiatives appear to be working. Even with the population boom over the past few years, the crime rate in Hillsborough County has decreased over 10% over the past three years, and the sheriff’s office continues to operate well within their budget.
Chad answered a number of questions from the membership, including
· A discussion of officer recruitment and retention
· Commentary on the civil unrest that is seen locally and nationally
· How the department has managed the jail population and protection of staff during COVID
· How the crime is tracked and calculated
· Defunding police
· Body cameras
· Legalized marijuana
Thanks to Sheriff Chronister for the informative program, and to the membership for a lively meeting!
