FMPD chief candidates tour city ahead of selection

FORT MYERS, Fla. – Out-of-town candidates in the running to become the next chief of the Fort Myers Police Department toured the city, coming just short of discussing the city’s issues Wednesday.

Assistant City Manager Matt Johnson drove the five finalists around. He took them downtown, through neighborhoods in Dunbar and past the Edison estates. Johnson said the tour was an opportunity for candidates to explore different areas in the city.

“The goal of this is nothing comprehensive, nothing to really get into the dirt,” he said. “That comes later. It’s to show them the city.”

There are a total of eight candidates being considered for the position. Three other finalists currently work for FMPD.

All eight finalists will speak with the public Wednesday. On Thursday, a citizen panel will interview the finalist. The city manager will meet with his top three candidates, then make a suggestion, which will require ratification from the city council.