Fort Lauderdale getting a ‘personable’ new police chief in Bill Schultz, city officials say
Fort Lauderdale is getting a new top cop known for his friendliness and charm.
Bill Schultz, a well-respected major with more than 23 years at the department, will step into the role on Monday, City Manager Greg Chavarria says.
The announcement, made Friday morning during a promotion ceremony at DRV PNK Stadium, elicited cheers from the rank and file.
“The city manager made the choice — and in the end he made the best choice,” Mayor Dean Trantalis told the South Florida Sun Sentinel. “People know him and they feel comfortable with him. We’re looking forward to bringing stability to the police department.”
Chavarria chose Schultz from a field of five candidates that included former Broward Sheriff Scott Israel, former Boynton Beach Police Chief Michael Gregory, Fort Lauderdale Assistant Chief Dana Swisher and Frank Sousa, a former assistant chief in Fort Lauderdale who is now chief of the Key Biscayne Police Department.
“There were many qualified candidates with excellent qualifications, but Chief Schultz has a pulse on the community and the specific current needs of the city,” Chavarria said. “We look forward to improving public safety and having more presence and visibility in all neighborhoods.”
Chief Patrick Lynn, who is retiring on Dec. 15, plans to stay on through that time to help with the transition, Chavarria said.
As chief, Schultz will earn $215,000 a year.
“I think he’s an excellent choice,” said Bill Brown, a longtime resident and community activist. “It’s a new day on the horizon for the Fort Lauderdale Police Department. I’m excited for him. He’s personable and he’s well known throughout the community.”
Commissioner John Herbst says he found out on Thursday night that Schultz was going to be named chief but was asked not to discuss it until after the news was announced on Friday.
“He’s a very solid, experienced guy,” Herbst said. “He’s well-liked and well-respected throughout the department. I have never heard one person say anything negative about him. He’s a very personable and outgoing guy.”
Commissioner Steve Glassman was also pleased that Schultz had gotten the job.
“He’s very well respected not just from community leaders but also the rank and file,” Glassman said. “I’m very excited to see this next chapter for our police force and the city in general.”
Susannah Bryan can be reached at sbryan@sunsentinel.com. Follow me on X @Susannah_Bryan
