Regular City Commission Meeting (2026-01-06)

City of Deerfield Beach Page 1 Printed on 2/03/2026 Meeting Minutes City Commission Tuesday, January 6, 2026 7:00 PM Commission Chambers CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL The meeting was called to order on the above date by Mayor Todd Drosky at 7:03 p.m., in the City Commission Chambers, City Hall, Deerfield Beach. Present: Commissioner Michael Hudak Commissioner Tom Plaut Commissioner Daniel Shanetzky Vice Mayor Ben Preston Mayor Todd Drosky Also Present: City Manager Rodney Brimlow City Attorney Anthony Soroka City Clerk Heather Montemayor MOMENT OF SILENCE AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE There was a moment of silence, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. APPROVAL OF CITY COMMISSION MINUTES Regular City Commission Meeting Minutes - December 2, 2025 MOTION was made by Commissioner Hudak, seconded by Vice Mayor Preston to approve the meeting minutes as submitted. Voice Vote: Yeas: 5 - Commissioner Hudak, Commissioner Plaut, Commissioner Shanetzky, Vice Mayor Preston, and Mayor Drosky Nays: 0 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF CITY BOARD MINUTES Code Compliance Meeting Minutes - October 28, 2025 African American Heritage Board Meeting Minutes - November 13, 2025 Charter Review Board Meeting Minutes - November 20, 2025 MOTION was made by Vice Mayor Preston, seconded by Commissioner Hudak, to acknowledge the board minutes. Voice Vote: Yeas: 5 - Commissioner Hudak, Commissioner Plaut, Commissioner Shanetzky, Vice Mayor Preston, and Mayor Drosky Nays: 0

Regular City Commission Meeting Minutes January 6, 2026 City of Deerfield Beach Page 2 Printed on 2/03/2026 APPROVAL OF CITY COMMISSION AGENDA January 6, 2026 MOTION was made by Commissioner Plaut, seconded by Vice Mayor Preston, to approve the agenda as submitted. Voice Vote: Yeas: 5 - Commissioner Hudak, Commissioner Plaut, Commissioner Shanetzky, Vice Mayor Preston, and Mayor Drosky Nays: 0 AWARDS & RECOGNITION 1. Certificate of Appreciation presented to Lawannna Strowbridge for her distinguished service and invaluable contributions to the African American Heritage Board. Vice Mayor Preston thanked Ms. Strowbridge for her efforts. PRESENTATIONS 2. Presentation regarding the Grow Deerfield Beach: Spend Local, Save Local campaign. Michelle Caba, Director of Economic Development, highlighted a brief PowerPoint presentation, outlining the Grow Deerfield Beach: Spend Local, Save Local campaign. Commissioner Hudak suggested offering a pier discount to individuals who present their card. Commissioner Plaut spoke in support of supporting the local businesses. After a brief discussion, it was decided to maintain the agenda order as presented. PUBLIC COMMENT Paula Cook, 62 Centennial Court, Deerfield Beach, suggested that the speed limit in school zones be written on the street. Sandra Jackson, 386 SW 35th Avenue, Deerfield Beach, commented on the status of various city reimbursements. Julie Rodriquez, 150 SE 7th Street, Deerfield Beach, wished everyone a happy new year. Thereafter, she commented on a school zone violation she received, and expressed concerns with the lack of signage. Alfred Bova, 718 S. Federal Highway, Deerfield Beach, commended the City for the lifeguard stations. Further, he said Southern Living magazine featured an article highlighting Deerfield Beach. Thereafter, he commented on the improvements to the S-Curve and expressed concerns regarding delays in the processing of his building plans. Jumorrow Poitier, 219 SW 4th Street, Deerfield Beach, suggested that the City waive fees for Deerfield Beach non-profits hosting events. Howard Noland, 325 SE 3rd Terrace, Deerfield Beach, commented on the over 50 senior softball program. Thereafter, he commented on the dilapidated pavilion at Pioneer Park. Dan Herz, 330 SE 19 th Avenue, Deerfield Beach, wished everyone a happy new year. Thereafter, he thanked Ms. Strowbridge for her efforts, and commented on the process for raising, lowering, and changing out city flags. Caryl Berner, 3130 Cambridge F, Deerfield Beach, expressed concerns with the raising, lowering, and changing out city flags.

Regular City Commission Meeting Minutes January 6, 2026 City of Deerfield Beach Page 3 Printed on 2/03/2026 PUBLIC COMMENT - CONTINUED Thomas Noland, 406 SE 8th Avenue, Deerfield Beach, wished everyone a happy new year. Thereafter, he expressed concerns with the standing water after last evening’s rainfall, and requested that the City take action. Demetrius Givens, 1150 SW 7 th Avenue, Deerfield Beach, thanked the City for the 100 year celebration, as this city’s history must be displayed and represented. John Slattery, 1455 SE 5th Place, Deerfield Beach, commented on the railroad tracks along Dixie Highway that are in need of repair, specifically at SW 10th Street and Hillsboro Boulevard. Gwyndolen Clarke-Reed, 1430 SW 6th Way, Deerfield Beach, asked for clarification on the signage regarding the school zone cameras. Katy Freitag, 418 SE 2nd Street, Deerfield Beach, wished everyone a happy new year. Thereafter, she commended the City for the December events, as well as a swim team who volunteered at the Women’s Club, etc. for community service hours. CONSENT - AGREEMENTS & EXPENDITURE REQUESTS 3. Resolution 2026/001 - A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of Deerfield Beach, Florida, approving the submission of a modification request to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection Grant Agreement No. LPA0508 to extend the performance period through September 30, 2026 and extend the Grant Agreement for the Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue Stormwater Project until March 31, 2027; authorizing execution of the amendment to the Grant Agreement; providing for conflicts, implementation, and an effective date. 4. Resolution 2026/002 - A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of Deerfield Beach, Florida, approving the award of a community participation grant to Deerfield Beach Little League, Inc. in the amount of $18,000.00 and use of city facilities to support youth baseball programs within the City; approving and authorizing execution of a facility use agreement with Deerfield Beach Little League for a three-year term, with two one year renewal options; providing for implementation, conflicts, severability, and an effective date. (Funds from Account #100-700-720-7202-000-57200-503914 - Athletic Program Supplement) Mayor Drosky opened the public hearing on Items 3 & 4. Dan Herz, 330 SE 19th Avenue, Deerfield Beach, commented on Item 4. Mayor Drosky closed the public hearing. There was no discussion amongst the Commission. MOTION was made by Commissioner Hudak, seconded by Commissioner Plaut, to approve Items 3 & 4 in concert. Roll Call: Yeas: 5 - Commissioner Hudak, Commissioner Plaut, Commissioner Shanetzky, Vice Mayor Preston, and Mayor Drosky Nays: 0 DEPARTMENTAL BUSINESS 5. ORDINANCE 2026/ - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DEERFIELD BEACH, FLORIDA, AMENDING SECTION 66-58 "PARKING PROHIBITED ON CERTAIN STREETS AND COMMERCIAL VEHICLE PARKING RESTRICTIONS" OF THE CITY CODE OF ORDINANCES TO PROHIBIT PARKING ON THE SWALES AND MEDIANS OF SE 19TH AVENUE FROM SE 6TH STREET TO SE 8TH STREET; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS, SEVERABILITY, CODIFICATION, AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

Regular City Commission Meeting Minutes January 6, 2026 City of Deerfield Beach Page 4 Printed on 2/03/2026 DEPARTMENTAL BUSINESS - CONTINUED The Ordinance was read by title only. Commissioner Hudak said if approved, this will correct the parking issues along these swales. Mayor Drosky opened the public hearing; however, there were none to speak and the public hearing was closed. MOTION was made by Commissioner Hudak, seconded by Vice Mayor Preston, to approve Items 5 on first reading. Voice Vote: Yeas: 5 - Commissioner Hudak, Commissioner Plaut, Commissioner Shanetzky, Vice Mayor Preston, and Mayor Drosky Nays: 0 6. Presentation and potential action regarding public safety services. Mayor Drosky provided a brief explanation of the process for this evening. Vice Mayor Preston requested that members of the Fire Department be permitted to speak. Mayor Drosky stated that anyone wishing to speak may do so during public comment. Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony stated that he’s approaching the Commission in a cease-fire manner to refocus the discussion on what is in the best interest of the 87,000 residents he represents. He expressed concern that the Commission was considering ending a 35-year relationship between law enforcement and fire rescue without having all the necessary facts. Sheriff Tony stated that the referenced transition report was an advocacy memorandum supporting a move toward independent police and fire departments, rather than a comprehensive analysis. He emphasized that any such decision should be informed, data-driven, and based on thorough qualitative and quantitative analysis, rather than emotion, given its impact on residents and first responders. Thereafter, Sheriff Tony offered an apology for any personal offense and stated that personal conflicts should not detract from the responsibilities of elected officials. He emphasized that his presentations are based on facts and assured the Commission that there would be no targeting of City officials by himself or his command staff. Further, he stated that he intended to outline critical deficiencies alleged in the report, warning that decisions based on those deficiencies could have serious, potentially life-threatening consequences. Sheriff Tony acknowledged Vice Mayor Preston’s experience as a first responder and emphasized the realities faced by firefighters and law enforcement officers over the past 35 years. He requested that first responders be given the opportunity to speak when appropriate and stated that he expects his personnel to approach the matter with humility and professionalism. Continuing, Sheriff Tony expressed concern over the accelerated timeline and the limited scope of the report, stating that the $72,000 contract resulted in a 12-page memorandum, whereas, comprehensive transition studies typically cost significantly more, take much longer, and include extensive analysis. He cautioned against making decisions affecting a 35-year public safety relationship and 87,000 residents based on such a brief document. He stated that the fire rescue portion is not a true feasibility study and is financially and operationally incomplete, contains factual errors, and underestimates startup and institutional risks. He identified major deficiencies, including the absence of EMS oversight, medical direction, training infrastructure, standards compliance, operational modeling, labor relations planning, and accreditation analysis, warning that moving forward without addressing these gaps could create serious operational, safety and liability risks, and potentially put lives at risk. Furthermore, Sheriff Tony stated that if the City terminated the agreement, all affected personnel would be retained within the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) and reassigned elsewhere in the County. Thereafter, he stated that the study lacked comprehensive qualitative and quantitative analysis, failed to address the required dual budget process during a transition, and was completed too quickly to support an informed decision, particularly given that no new funding would be available to the City.

Regular City Commission Meeting Minutes January 6, 2026 City of Deerfield Beach Page 5 Printed on 2/03/2026 DEPARTMENTAL BUSINESS - CONTINUED Moreover, Sheriff Tony stated that the report’s claim of a $33,000 per-employee cost differential is unexplained and unrealistic, effectively implying a potential 58% reduction in baseline salaries for firefighters and law enforcement, which would severely undermine recruitment and retention efforts. Additionally, the report includes the assertion that the City has extremely limited control over staffing decisions under the BSO contract, which is inaccurate as staffing decisions are made collaboratively and that the City retains meaningful influence once contracts are executed. Additionally, the report cites a projected 7.5% annual BSO cost increase, but lacks the supporting data. He spoke in opposition of fixed cost caps in public safety contracts, as prior caps failed to account for inflation, population growth, tourism impacts, and evolving service demands, making them unsustainable. Thereafter, he continued outlining his concerns, which included vague staffing model assumptions, unsupported cost estimates, i.e. $713,347 for new administrative personnel, arbitrary cost comparisons between independent services and BSO, and the absence of an analysis on fleet needs, vehicle shortages, procurement strategy, and rising vehicle costs. Lastly, Sheriff Tony stated that if the goal is to move forward and terminate the current relationship, he urged the Commission to exercise due diligence, as it took him an hour to dissect the 12-page report. He proposed that the Commission engage one of the top reputable firms, who specialize in this type of analysis, from a list the Commission may select from. Additionally, he offered to extend the contract for two years and to fund the independent study, with the Commission selecting the firm. Commissioner Hudak accepted the Sheriff’s apology and stated that if he did anything to offend the Sheriff, he apologizes as well. Commissioner Shanetzky said the City of Pompano Beach was offered a one-year extension while they completed their study; therefore, he asked if the Sheriff would be amenable to a one-year extension. Sheriff Tony stated that he is offering a two-year extension, but will allow the Commission to decide on the length of time. Additionally, he can provide a list of consultants for the commission to select from, with the cost covered by the BSO. In response to Commissioner Shanetzky’s question, Sheriff Tony replied that five different offers were presented to the City, whereby, nothing needs to be changed. If an extension is the desire of the Commission, the numbers will remain. Stockton Reeves, Center for Public Safety, clarified that the document is a feasibility report, not a transition report, and that it represents an executive summary rather than a comprehensive report. Thereafter, he provided a brief overview of the feedback he received from the public safety workshops. Mr. Reeves stated that he was tasked with obtaining and analyzing information to be presented to the City through an objective report focused on four critical areas: (1) public safety costs, including historical, current, and projected costs; (2) control over costs, personnel, personnel allocation, and service delivery; (3) accountability, whereas, a city-operated model would provide Police and Fire Chiefs directly accountable to the City; and (4) opportunity, whereby, public safety service costs have historically increased by approximately 10% annually, and total payments to the BSO over a 20-year period could reach approximately $3.2 billion. The City’s estimates outlined in the report indicate that the cost of a city-operated model could be approximately $2.3 billion, which is a potential savings of approximately $1.2 billion over the life of the analysis period. Mr. Reeves stated that reports of this nature can span hundreds of pages and could include extensive supporting documentation. Using publicly available data, he reviewed agreements from ten Broward County cities contracted with the BSO, encompassing 16 law enforcement and fire rescue contracts, and obtained additional information from various entities for data collection and benchmarking. Current vendor quotes and equipment pricing were used to estimate startup costs for vehicles, hardware, software, and technology. Although not within the scope of work, Mr. Reeves reviewed other municipalities that had transitioned to independent public safety services and identified common success factors, including populations of 75,000 or more, diversified commercial or industrial revenue, and realistic financial projections. He stated that Deerfield Beach would not be reinventing the process and that national databases identify 1,365 police departments with at least 85 sworn officers, along with available resources and grant opportunities.

Regular City Commission Meeting Minutes January 6, 2026 City of Deerfield Beach Page 6 Printed on 2/03/2026 DEPARTMENTAL BUSINESS - CONTINUED Continuing, Mr. Reeves highlighted a PowerPoint presentation. Thereafter, he provided a brief overview of his firm, which was also retained in conjunction with Raftelis to conduct a similar study for the City of Pompano Beach. Further, he displayed the current BSO contract costs, which include personnel expenses, operating expenditures, capital outlay, and transfers & reserves, $35.7 million for law enforcement and $39.5 million for fire rescue, for a total cost of $75.2 million. Mr. Reeves stated that independent public safety departments typically provide more positions at a lower cost per employee. He explained that the report suggests a potential reduction of up to 16% in overall personnel costs paid to the BSO; however, this does not represent a 16% reduction in employee salaries, but rather a reduction in the cost structure associated with the contracted services. Thereafter, he displayed a comparison between the current BSO contract model and an independent municipal department model, which reported that independent departments would provide more personnel at a lower per-employee cost. For law enforcement, the BSO model includes 152 positions at an estimated cost of approximately $30.6 million, while an independent department would provide 158 positions at an estimated cost of approximately $27.4 million, for a reported projected year one savings of approximately $6.0 million, inclusive of personnel, transfers, and expenses. For fire rescue, the BSO model includes 144 positions at an estimated cost of approximately $36.5 million, while an independent department would provide 145 positions at an estimated cost of approximately $31.6 million, for a projected year one savings of approximately $5.7 million, inclusive of personnel, transfers, and expenses. Mr. Reeves displayed the 20-year financial projections, which indicated an estimated cost of approximately $3.2 billion under the current BSO contract model compared to approximately $2.3 billion under an independent department model, representing a potential long-term savings of approximately $925 million. Lastly, Mr. Reeves explained that in addition to financial considerations, the City will receive benefits of independence, including increased local control over collective bargaining, staffing, training, policies, and deployment strategies; enhanced community engagement; elimination of county administrative overhead; and direct accountability of police and fire leadership to the City Manager and City Commission. He stated that an independent police and fire rescue model could provide Deerfield Beach with improved fiscal predictability, greater operational control, and increased accountability. Mr. Reeves stated that the City should be able to capitalize in year one and start-up costs will be fully recovered after 2½ years based on the savings. In response to Vice Mayor Preston’s question, Mr. Reeves replied that he does not have the exact figures for establishing an independent fire department; however, the operational savings could amount to approximately $4.8 million. Additionally, the total for all capital and equipment for both police and fire rescue services are estimated at $21.4 million. In response to Vice Mayor Preston’s question, Rodney Brimlow, City Manager, replied that he believes $6 million was outlined in the backup data for additional support personnel; nonetheless, the start-up costs for both police and fire are $21.8 million (s/b $21.4 million). In response to Vice Mayor Preston’s question, Mr. Reeves replied that the start-up costs do not include costs for stocking each apparatus, as it was not a part of the scope. Vice Mayor Preston expressed concerns with making a decision without knowing all the costs. Further, he needs assurance that if a transition occurred, the residents would continue receiving a high level of service. In response to Vice Mayor Preston’s question, Mr. Reeves replied that training is not included in the initial start-up cost, whereby, the report is about feasibility and looking at the escalating costs. Further, he stated that the estimated cost savings will be enough to provide training, whereby, if brought in-house, this commission would be able to set those training standards. Vice Mayor Preston stated that the previously city-operated fire department lacked proper guidance, which led to insufficient training; however, the BSO has been able to properly train our firefighters to ensure residents are receiving the highest level of service. Mr. Reeves said the standards for training and facilities have drastically changed over the years.

Regular City Commission Meeting Minutes January 6, 2026 City of Deerfield Beach Page 7 Printed on 2/03/2026 DEPARTMENTAL BUSINESS - CONTINUED In response to Commissioner Shanetzky’s comments, Mr. Reeves listed the entities for which he’s completed feasibility studies. Thereafter, he briefly commented on the City of Pompano Beach’s study. Mr. Reeves reiterated that a 12-page executive summary has been provided; nonetheless, if the Commission desires, he can provide the complete report. Commissioner Shanetzky stated that he went door-to-door in Century Village to gauge his constituents, and the majority expressed satisfaction with the BSO and a desire to maintain current services. In response to Commissioner Shanetzky’s comment, Mr. Reeves stated that extensive data was used, including past, current, and projected BSO contracts, as well as data from other cities with similar contracts. Further, the projected costs with the BSO increase between 10.1% and 10.88% annually, and when extrapolated, the figures reflect this trend. Commissioner Shanetzky stated that from 2020 to 2024/25, the City of Coral Springs’ costs increased from $57 million to $68 million and Boynton Beach’s from $35 million to $44 million. Additionally, Boca Raton is planning a major capital investment in new police headquarters, which will result in higher long-term operating and debt costs in the millions and Jupiter’s police labor costs have increased 40% over the past few years. Based on these trends, how can a projected savings of half a billion dollars occur. Mr. Reeves reiterated the extensive data that was gathered in order to complete the study. Further, he said if services are brought in-house the City would have the ability to make their own financial decisions. Thereafter, he commented on conversations he had with Commissioner Shanetzky during the public safety workshops. In response to Commissioner Hudak’s question, Mr. Reeves provided a brief overview of the difference between a feasibility and transition study, whereby, a feasibility study focuses on the primary concern of cost. Thereafter, he reiterated that extensive data was gathered to complete the study, and stated that he stands by the numbers. Lastly, the only factor that could change the projections would be a renegotiation of BSO contracts at a lower cost. Commissioner Plaut spoke in support of the savings. Vice Mayor Preston stated that he spearheaded the request to hire a consultant to conduct a study, so this commission would have all the facts, prior to making a decision; however, many of his questions remain unanswered and the full report would have been beneficial. In response to Vice Mayor Preston’s question, Mr. Reeves replied that the feasibility study provides sufficient data to evaluate the numbers. Commissioner Shanetzky agreed, whereby, he has questions and concerns that have not been answered or addressed. Mayor Drosky opened the public hearing. Charles Whatley, no address provided, commented on the Sheriff’s actions, and urged the Commission to act in the best interest of their constituents. The following individuals spoke in support of continuing services with the BSO: • Paula Cook, 62 Centennial Court, Deerfield Beach. • Donna Capobiano, 2157 Cambridge G, Deerfield Beach. Bernie Parness, 3074 Harwood F, Deerfield Beach, spoke in support of bringing law enforcement and fire rescue services in-house. Julie Rodriguez, 150 SE 7th Street, Deerfield Beach, spoke in support of continuing services with the BSO.

Regular City Commission Meeting Minutes January 6, 2026 City of Deerfield Beach Page 8 Printed on 2/03/2026 DEPARTMENTAL BUSINESS - CONTINUED Gloria Battle, 1240 SW 6th Way, Deerfield Beach, requested that the Commission not vote based on self- interest. Thereafter, she commented on the previous transition and lack of BSO presence in District 2. Chad Brocato, 8211 Canopy Terrace, Parkland, commented on his previous role as Deerfield Beach’s Fire Chief. Thereafter, he commented on the inaccuracies within the report, as well as Jupiter’s staffing levels. Caryl Berner, 3130 Cambridge F, Deerfield Beach, spoke in support of continuing services with the BSO. Eric Conte, 505 NE 20 th Avenue, Deerfield Beach, commented on the struggles he endured, i.e. lack of training, inadequate staffing, etc. while serving as a firefighter in the City of Dania Beach. Bob DiChristopher, 517 NE 6th Avenue, Deerfield Beach, spoke in support of extending the contracts for two years, so a transition study can be conducted, whereby, the savings, if they truly exist, will still be effective. Although, he is a proponent of staying local, he reiterated the need for an extension, so a more thorough study can be completed. The following individuals spoke in support of continuing services with the BSO: • Joseph Miller, 248 SE 18th Avenue, Deerfield Beach. • Mary Drabik, 4081 Marina Way, Lighthouse Point. Dan Herz, 330 SE 19th Avenue, Deerfield Beach, commented on the consultant’s background. Thereafter, he expressed concerns with the feasibility study. Howard Noland, 325 SE 3rd Terrace, Deerfield Beach, commented on his experiences as a Deerfield Beach and BSO firefighter. Thereafter, he expressed concerns with the numbers being the main priority, as numbers are not what shows up to your front door. Lastly, he commented on the difficulties the Town of Jupiter is facing, whereby, they are currently having issues hiring firefighters and paramedics. Sandra Jackson, 386 SW 35 th Avenue, Deerfield Beach, asked that a decision not be made this evening, as more information is needed. Thereafter, she urged the Commission to extend the contract, so a more thorough study can be performed. Demetrius Givens, 1150 SW 7th Avenue, Deerfield Beach, stated that we must get past our differences, and do what’s best for the community. Peggy Noland, 325 SE 3rd Terrace, Deerfield Beach, spoke in support of extending the contract for two- years, so a more thorough study can be conducted. Thereafter, she commented on the public safety study. Commissioner Ryan Shrouder, 11540 SW 56 th Street, Cooper City, commented on his experience with bringing services in-house. Further, regardless of the decision that is made, he believes this relationship can be salvaged. Joe Cummings, 267 Oakridge P, Deerfield Beach, expressed concerns with the continued increase in costs. Thereafter, he commented on the County’s position and questioned who will cover any shortfall if the BSO doesn’t get their requested funding from the County. Thereafter, he commented on the training requirements of personnel, as well as the public safety workshops. Thomas Noland, 406 SE 8th Avenue, Deerfield Beach, expressed concerns with the feasibility study, particularly salary assumptions. Further, he stated that the contract increases stem from the Sheriff’s salary study and explained that more firefighters are retiring than are graduating from the fire academy. Jonathan Ounjian, 1938 NE 6th Street, Deerfield Beach, spoke in opposition to the Sheriff’s termination of the contract, which ended early to align agreements with other cities. Thereafter, he commented on a recent experience he had with the BSO, lack of accountability, and the extremely large BSO administration.

Regular City Commission Meeting Minutes January 6, 2026 City of Deerfield Beach Page 9 Printed on 2/03/2026 DEPARTMENTAL BUSINESS - CONTINUED Major Christopher DiGiovanni, 2601 W. Broward Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, expressed concerns with the data that was gathered in order to perform the study. John Slattery, 1455 SE 5th Place, Deerfield Beach, stated that other cities who were in similar situations decided to stay with the County, i.e. City of Deltona. If the Commission decides to bring services in-house, various services, i.e. SWAT, etc. would still be county-provided. Thereafter, he commented on telecommunication systems, questioned whether projected savings would result in a reduced millage rate for taxpayers, and that rebuilding what we already have at a higher cost and risk makes no sense. Katy Freitag, 418 SE 2 nd Street, Deerfield Beach, said everyone should have a right to speak, regardless of residency. Further, she stated that while academy graduates may lack experience, they should possess the required training. Currently, the City has no control over the personnel assigned to Deerfield Beach. Lastly, she spoke in support of the two-year extension, but questioned the cost. Gwendolyn Clarke-Reed, 1430 SW 6 th Way, Deerfield Beach, stated that the City does not have sufficient information to make a decision at this time. Thereafter, she spoke in support of extending the contract to allow for a more thorough study. She suggested that the Commission submit a list of specific questions they need answered, rather than relying on the consultant to determine what should be addressed. April Bolowich, 899 NE 4th Street, Deerfield Beach, expressed concerns with making this change, as it puts the City at considerable risk. Thereafter, she commented on the consultant’s qualifications and city’s drainage system and infrastructure, which must be corrected prior to entering into another large capital expense. Brian Palmer, no address provided, spoke in support of Local 4321, and as a Broward County firefighter, expressed concerns with the hiring of firefighters. Brian Prather, no address provided, stated that he works for Palm Beach Fire Rescue as a firefighter and instructor, and expressed concerns with retention. Thereafter, he stated that the Town of Jupiter is currently experiencing issues, and asked that the Commission do their due diligence. Mayor Drosky closed the public hearing. Commissioner Shanetzky asked if the City enters into a new contract, will the terms be honored. Sheriff Tony replied that rising costs and long-term sustainability are challenges faced by all partner cities, not just Deerfield Beach. He explained that the BSO contracts include joint assessments to evaluate future cost projections and ensure flexibility, rather than assuming current arrangements will remain viable years down the line. He advised against relying on hypothetical long-term savings projections, as they are risky. Sheriff Tony commented on significant staffing challenges across Broward County, whereby, when first elected there were more than 250 vacant positions, which required extraordinary recruitment efforts. He stated that public safety agencies are currently losing first responders due to compensation and financial constraints, which threatens retention. Sheriff Tony supported funding a salary study and extending the contract for two years, but stressed that any extension must be based on the results of the study, as extending the contract without addressing compensation issues would likely result in the loss of first responders. Commissioner Shanetzky reiterated his question. Sheriff Tony stated that the issue cannot be reduced to a simple yes-or-no answer, whereas, if a future salary study shows evidence that compensation is significantly below market standards, it would be unreasonable for any governing body to ignore that finding. He said there was general agreement on the importance of periodically evaluating investments in public safety personnel, which is why the contract includes language providing for a jointly conducted salary study rather than revisiting the issue every year or two. Further, he stated that the BSO would fund the independent study at no cost. Commissioner Shanetzky asked if the results would be honored once the study is completed and both parties agree on the terms.

Regular City Commission Meeting Minutes January 6, 2026 City of Deerfield Beach Page 10 Printed on 2/03/2026 DEPARTMENTAL BUSINESS - CONTINUED Sheriff Tony replied that it would be inappropriate to speculate on hypothetical outcomes three to four years into the future. The consultant’s 12-page report makes preconceived assumptions about costs and implications without a thorough evaluation, which he cannot endorse and the community should not expect him to endorse. Commissioner Shanetzky left the meeting temporarily at 10:34 p.m. and returned 10:37 p.m. Commissioner Plaut commented on the study that was performed in 1989, and stated that the City is in a completely different position today. Further, he expressed concerns with the City losing control over these services, and the possibility of knowing that services can be cancelled at any time by the Sheriff. If public safety services are brought in-house, first responders will have to be paid a comparable salary, otherwise no one will be interested. Thereafter, various graphs were displayed. Commissioner Plaut explained that Deerfield Beach is the 10 th largest city out of the 31 in Broward County and the largest city that contracts out both police and fire services. Additionally, the BSO provides law enforcement services to 27% of Broward County residents and fire rescue services to 12% of the County’s residents. Although, he strongly believes the City needs to take back control of public safety services, he is not ready to make a decision this evening. Vice Mayor Preston stated that, going forward, individuals who do not provide their address should not be permitted to speak. Anthony Soroka, City Attorney, explained that under the Florida State public records law, there are a number of exemptions and certain addresses are considered confidential including law enforcement, fire rescue, etc. Vice Mayor Preston spoke in opposition to individuals not disclosing their address. Further, he said the City has the same leverage and control as the Sheriff when it comes to terminating the contract. Thereafter, he spoke in support of the two-year extension, so the City can perform a more thorough study. In response to Commissioner Hudak’s question, Colonel Steve Robson, replied that Deerfield Beach must enter into both contracts, as entering into only one is not an option. Commissioner Hudak stated that he had hoped to obtain more information from the feasibility study and expressed interest in exploring a two-year contract, as a transition study is warranted. Public safety is the number one priority, and although he has confidence in the City’s ability to operate high quality police and fire departments, there is a need for this commission to do their due diligence. Thereafter, he commented on the 1989 study, and reiterated the need for more details. Commissioner Hudak stated that, ultimately, the issue centers on cost control, as the larger cities are moving away from the BSO services; currently, only 13 cities are contracted with the BSO. Mayor Drosky urged the Commission to get their questions answered prior to the January 20 th meeting. Commissioner Shanetzky commented on the police and fire stations. Thereafter, he outlined the financial incentives provided to first responders by other cities. Commissioner Hudak left the meeting temporarily at 10:56 p.m. and returned 10:59 p.m. In response to Mr. Soroka’s question, Mayor Drosky replied that the Commission will need clarification on the Sheriff’s two-year proposal. COMMENTS BY ADMINISTRATION & LEGAL CITY ATTORNEY - None. CITY MANAGER - None.

Regular City Commission Meeting Minutes January 6, 2026 City of Deerfield Beach Page 11 Printed on 2/03/2026 COMMENTS BY MAYOR & CITY COMMISSION COMMISSIONER HUDAK DISTRICT 1 Happy New Year - Commissioner Hudak wished everyone a happy new year. Thank You - Commissioner Hudak thanked everyone for showing up this evening. COMMISSIONER SHANETZKY DISTRICT 3 Updates/Events - Commissioner Shanetzky commented on the Main Gate at Century Village, which is now open. Further, he congratulated Mayor Drosky for being honored as Man of the Year by Young Israel. Thereafter, he said BSO Fire will be putting on a free CPR class at Century Village on January 26 th and 28th. Additionally, he is working on a crosswalk on Powerline and Hillsboro. Crystal Lake - Commissioner Shanetzky thanked everyone involved for the sidewalks. Further, he said staff is now working on traffic calming devices in the area. Meadows at Crystal Lake - Commissioner Shanetzky said they will be hosting a health fair on January 9 th. COMMISSIONER PLAUT DISTRICT 4 Centennial Events - Commissioner Plaut commented on all the events, and thanked everyone involved. VICE MAYOR PRESTON DISTRICT 2 Thank You - Vice Mayor Preston thanked everyone for coming out and although debate is challenging, its important. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day - Vice Mayor Preston said the Day of Service, which is a neighborhood cleanup, will occur on January 17 th and the MLK celebration on January 19 th at 10:00 a.m. MAYOR DROSKY Thank You - Mayor Drosky thanked everyone for coming out this evening. Thereafter, he urged his colleagues to get their questions answered and asked that the City Attorney seek clarification from the BSO on the two-year contract. America 250 - Mayor Drosky asked if banners can be added to the light poles. ADJOURNMENT There was no additional business to discuss. MOTION was made by Vice Mayor Preston, seconded by Commissioner Hudak, to adjourn the meeting at 11:11p.m. Voice Vote: Yeas: 5 - Commissioner Hudak, Commissioner Plaut, Commissioner Shanetzky, Vice Mayor Preston, and Mayor Drosky Nays: 0 _________________________________ CITY OF DEERFIELD BEACH _____________________________ TODD DROSKY, MAYOR Heather Montemayor, CMC, City Clerk