by SC Reporter Emilie Alfino
In 2022, the City Council authorized three full-time positions for a Sanibel Rangers program in the Police Department. These positions were not filled during 2022 or 2023. The fiscal year 2024 adopted budget continued the authorizations for these positions (originally five positions); however, the associated funding was not included in the adopted budget due to fiscal constraints following Hurricane Ian.
During its May meeting, City Council expressed some concerns relating to enforcement of speed and authorized e-bikes along the shared-use path. Filling the Ranger positions will add additional personnel at various points on the shared-use path system to increase education and enforcement of ordinances and regulations for pedestrian and bike traffic.
Upon recommendation by Mayor Richard Johnson, the number of Rangers was reduced from five to three. The Rangers will first be on regular bicycles and eventually on e-bikes. Their charge was described by Police Chief William Dalton as “friendly enforcement on the path.”
Due to vacant positions that have not been filled in the Police Department, there is adequate funding for these positions to be filled and this action will not increase the budget for the remainder of this fiscal year.
Great news! Brings police and citizens/visitors much closer.