Deerfield Beach Votes to Establish Its Own Police and Fire-Rescue Departments

City commissioner explains why the move away from Broward Sheriff's Office is the right decision for the community

Jan. 27, 2026 at 12:55pm

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The Deerfield Beach City Commission has voted to establish its own police and fire-rescue departments, ending a 35-year partnership with the Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO). City Commissioner Michael Hudak, who supported the move, cites financial uncertainty and a lack of cost control under the BSO contract as key reasons behind the decision. Hudak argues that Deerfield Beach, as the 10th largest city in Broward County, has the leadership, infrastructure, and financial capability to successfully manage its own public safety services.

Why it matters

This decision by Deerfield Beach highlights the ongoing debate around the role of county-level law enforcement agencies versus local municipal police departments. As larger cities seek more control over public safety budgets and priorities, some are opting to establish their own departments rather than relying on the county sheriff's office. This move by Deerfield Beach could set a precedent for other Broward County cities considering a similar transition.

The details

Deerfield Beach city commissioners voted 4-1 to end the city's contract with the Broward Sheriff's Office and create its own police and fire-rescue departments. Commissioner Hudak cited the BSO's inability to guarantee honoring a two-year contract as a key factor, as well as the city's desire to have more control over staffing, compensation, and budgeting for public safety services. Deerfield Beach, with a population of over 75,000, is the 10th largest city in Broward County and the 35th largest in Florida.

  • The Deerfield Beach City Commission voted on the decision on January 21, 2026.
  • Deerfield Beach has relied on the Broward Sheriff's Office for public safety services for the past 35 years.

The players

Deerfield Beach City Commission

The governing body of the City of Deerfield Beach, Florida, which voted to establish the city's own police and fire-rescue departments.

Broward Sheriff Gregory Tony

The sheriff of Broward County, Florida, who was unable to commit to honoring a two-year contract with Deerfield Beach, according to Commissioner Hudak.

Michael Hudak

A Deerfield Beach city commissioner who supported the decision to create the city's own public safety departments.

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What they’re saying

“There has never been any issue with the level of public safety services BSO has provided Deerfield Beach. But the financial uncertainty associated with the BSO contract could not be ignored.”

— Michael Hudak, Deerfield Beach City Commissioner

“Establishing our own public safety departments allows Deerfield Beach to attract, retain and train personnel who reflect our community's values and priorities while maintaining control over our long-term financial future.”

— Michael Hudak, Deerfield Beach City Commissioner

What’s next

The city of Deerfield Beach will now begin the process of setting up its own police and fire-rescue departments, including hiring personnel, establishing training programs, and finalizing budgets and operations.

The takeaway

Deerfield Beach's decision to break away from the Broward Sheriff's Office and create its own public safety departments highlights the growing trend of larger municipalities seeking more local control over law enforcement and emergency services. This move could inspire other Broward County cities to consider similar transitions, potentially leading to a reshaping of the county's public safety landscape.