Hometown News and Views

Pompano Beach favorite’s also caught up in firings
By Judy Wilson
Pelican staff
Deerfield Beach – The firing of Police Chief Pete Sudler by incoming sheriff Scott Israel has left this community reeling. “It is shocking that a town that voted 2 to 1 for the new sheriff could be so hurt by his first action,” said Sally Potter, a member of the housing authority board.
Avis Swenson, president of the local Kiwanis Club said, “This is not politics are usual. This is our city and we are on a roll. Deerfield Beach is coming together as never before. I don’t care if the new chief is the best thing ever, this will set our city back.”
Sudler, a 22-year veteran of the department, came here in 2006 as executive officer and became chief in 2010. He holds degrees in criminal justice, management, has earned two masters and is a graduate of the FBI school.
A spokesperson for Israel’s team, Ron Gunzberger, told local blogger Bett Willett that community leaders and elected officials had been contacted prior to Sudler’s being told by email that he is being terminated Jan. 8 if he has not resigned.
Attempts to reach Mayor Peggy Noland before press time were unsuccessful, but Vice Mayor Bill Ganz said he “absolutely” had not been contacted, “not before, nor since [Sudler’s] termination.”
Sudler is one of 26 high-ranking BSO personnel whose terminations were announced this week.
Another on the chopping block is Broward Fire Chief Neal de Jesus who was instrumental in converting Deerfield’s fire/rescue service to BSO. Taking his place will be Margate Fire Chief Tony Stravino who was Deerfield Beach Fire Chief for a brief period.
Also relieved of her position is Donna Council a former head of purchasing here who is purchasing director at BSO.
Pompano Beach changes
In Pompano Beach, Major William Knowles will be promoted to lieutenant colonel. Knowles will no longer serve in Pompano Beach.
Another loss to the city will be Captain Milton Wiener, whose name was on the “fire” list. The Pelican was unable to reach Major Knowles to confirm the reports.
Pompano Beach Mayor Lamar Fisher said he was extremely pleased about Major Knowles’ promotion. “It is well deserved after his many years of dedication to this city. I was also disappointed about the termination of Captain Wiener. He has always been an asset to the city.”
The transition of leadership in the Broward Sheriff’s Office takes place on Jan. 8.