Inside City Hall

When I stepped into the role of City Manager, I did not expect that selecting a new Police Chief would be one of my first responsibilities. As many in our community know, former Police Chief Tracy Frazzano submitted her retirement letter on the same day I was appointed. I am sincerely grateful for her service to the Marco Island Police Department and for the many contributions she made to our community.

Immediately upon receiving her letter, I contacted Lieutenant Joe Belardo—who was on vacation at the time—and asked him to consider serving as Interim Police Chief. I am extremely appreciative that he agreed to take on this important role with little notice. Our Police Department, the Police Foundation, and residents have all expressed strong support for Interim Chief Belardo, and I share their confidence.

While these early steps may seem procedural, I believe it is important for residents to know that momentum matters. Within days, Human Resources posted the Police Chief position on the City’s website, LinkedIn, and professional association sites. Applications began arriving immediately, including from many highly qualified candidates—no surprise, given that Marco Island is an exceptional place to live and work.

In recent weeks, residents have asked about the hiring timeline, who will participate in the selection process, and what qualifications I consider essential. The application period will remain open through June. Afterward, I will narrow the pool to the top ten candidates. Working alongside our Human Resources Director, we will then reduce that group to five finalists through reference and background checks.

To ensure a comprehensive and balanced process, I have already begun assembling an interview panel that includes individuals with varied expertise and experience. The panel will consist of myself, the Human Resources Director, the Fire-Rescue Chief, a representative from the Naples Police Department Command Staff, a representative from the Collier County Sheriff’s Office Command Staff, a representative from the Marco Island Fraternal Order of Police (union), and a member of the Marco Island Police Foundation (community member). Interviews are expected to take place in late July, with a final selection anticipated in August.

As for what I am seeking in our next Chief, the list is both practical and aspirational. The Chief must be an experienced law enforcement professional and a strong relationship-builder, someone who can collaborate effectively with regional partners such as the Naples Police Chief and the Collier County Sheriff. It would be shortsighted not to rely on the deep expertise of our Police Foundation and our Union, both of whom represent decades of law enforcement knowledge. Because emergency preparedness and response closely link Police and Fire, input from the Fire Chief is equally important. The ideal candidate will be a strategic leader for our officers and staff, a thoughtful advisor to City Council and the City Manager, and someone who can navigate budget constraints while responding to evolving public safety needs.

Marco Island is entering an exciting chapter. Recently, we have welcomed a new Finance Director, a new Chief Building Official, a new City Manager, and soon, a new Police Chief. These transitions bring opportunities to approach our challenges with fresh perspectives and a renewed focus on continuous improvement. As we look ahead to celebrating 30 years of Cityhood in 2027, we remain committed to our government-light model, to strengthening partnerships with local businesses, civic groups, residents, and regional agencies, and to preserving the quality of life that makes Marco Island truly extraordinary.

The next Police Chief will play a critical role in shaping the future of our organization and our community. I look forward to introducing that leader to you in the months ahead.