Submitted By: Lafayetta Hodges / Susan Dobson
presenter
Presentation By: Michael Balken
end
Department: Police
STAFF RECOMMENDATION (Motion Ready):
title
Approve a one-year agreement with Lutheran Services Florida, Inc. Health Systems for an Ocala Police Department chaplain position in the amount of $99,694
end
OCALA'S RELEVANT STRATEGIC GOALS:
Quality of Place
PROOF OF PUBLICATION:
N/A
body
BACKGROUND:
Historically, the Ocala Police Department's ("OPD") Chaplain Program (the "Program") has operated on a volunteer-only basis. Those serving, many of whom have extensive experience in pastoral care, counseling, and spiritual support, dedicate their time, energy, and emotional labor to the department. Chaplains provide critical services, such as crisis response, grief support, counseling, and spiritual care.
While this volunteer-driven model is commendable, it presents limitations. The Program's effectiveness is constrained by the availability of volunteers, many of whom have other personal or professional obligations. This can lead to inconsistent service coverage, particularly during critical incidents or periods of high demand.
Establishing a full-time, paid Police Chaplain position represents a strategic investment in officer wellness, organizational resilience, and public trust. It would ensure consistent support services and strengthen the Department's ability to respond to both internal and community needs.
FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS:
On January 31, 2025, the City of Ocala (the "City") issued an application through Lutheran Services Florida Health Systems (LSFHS) for funding to support the full-time Police Chaplain position for OPD. On April 24, 2025, LSFHS awarded the City grant funding to pay the salary and benefits of a full-time chaplain in the amount of $99,694 for the term July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026.
A formalized paid police chaplain position will enable OPD to expand the provision of chaplain services to include participa...
Click here for full text