Coral Springs is proposing to create a new position

Coral Springs, Florida – In order to provide more support to city employees responding to the needs of a growing population, especially now in the pandemic, Coral Springs is proposing to create a new position.

According to a budget document, budgeted at $184,810, the new citywide health and safety officer would be for a full-time licensed mental health professional who would provide staff with a “non-threatening approach for intervention and determination of treatment,” in working with people in the community in experiencing behavioral health issues.

Officials said the proposed job comes as city police, firefighters/paramedics, and other employees have to deal with more physical and mental stress related to their jobs.

According to budget documents, the new jobs account for $2.2 million in spending. The position is one of 18 new jobs in the proposed 2021-2022 budget that includes millage and fees increases.

If approved, the position for a new citywide health and safety officer would be filled by Battalion Chief Christopher Bator, said Lynne Martzall, the city’s spokeswoman and director of the communications and marketing department.

“This position is a progression of Battalion Chief Christopher Bator’s current role, as the Health & Safety Officer in the fire department, to have more of a leadership and strategic oversight of similar duties city-wide,” Marzall said in an email.

She added: “Chief Bator will take on a greater leadership role because of his passion for this area, leadership capabilities, and our desire to provide a cohesive strategy for all employees groups (for physical health and mental health of all employees).”

According to the position’s description in the city’s business plan for the coming year, the person will “assist the patients with future resources and needs to guide them to be healthier and safe.”

In addition, the person will “work with the law enforcement victim advocate and expand the emotional support we provide to our victims and their families.”