Collier City Substation Opens, Residents Push for 24/7 Presence 

By Villij News Staff 

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POMPANO BEACH, FL — Collier City residents and city leaders gathered on August 4 to mark the opening of a new Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) substation, a $2.1 million investment designed to strengthen public safety in one of Pompano Beach’s most underserved neighborhoods. 

The 2,750-square-foot facility at 441 NW 27th Avenue is the first of its kind in Collier City. Construction began in April 2024, and city officials say the building represents more than bricks and mortar. “It’s delivering for the residents — that’s really what it’s all about,” said Mayor Rex Hardin, who credited teamwork across city departments for making the project possible. 

Safety Concerns Close to Home 

The location of the substation is deliberate. It sits just steps from the Community Food Store, a convenience store linked to drug activity and shootings. In February 2023, gunfire outside the store killed Delana James, a pregnant woman, and Dayvon Johnson, a father of four. Residents say tragedies like these made investment in Collier City non-negotiable. 

“Anybody who has lived in Pompano Beach for any length of time knows Collier City has had issues in the past,” Hardin said. “But I tell you what — Collier City is a community on the move. It really is, and it’s flourishing out here.” 

More Than a Building 

District 5 Commissioner Darlene Smith, who represents the neighborhood, said the project was years in the making. “This was just a dream, and it took some time, but here we are,” she told residents. “Substations build relationships. Officers will get to know the community, and residents will get to know their officers. That’s how trust is built.” 

Sheriff Gregory Tony agreed, stressing that the new presence goes beyond enforcement. “There’s one thing for us to be called out to the community for an incident, but it’s another for us to reside here,” he said. “This is not us occupying a space. This is us living with you all, day to day.” 

The Debate Over Hours 

Despite the celebration, some residents voiced disappointment that the station will not be open 24/7. For families who have endured late-night shootings, the limited hours feel like a missed opportunity. 

“We’ve waited years for this building,” one resident told Villij News. “Now we need it to be open when it matters most.” 

Commissioner Smith echoed that sentiment, pointing to the facility’s hurricane-ready design, full kitchen, and backup power. “It clearly demonstrates the city’s willingness to provide safety and to listen to residents,” she said. “But Collier City deserves to feel secure — all day, every day.” 

Looking Ahead 

For now, city leaders call the substation a first step toward strengthening safety in Collier City. The real measure will be whether deputies stationed there can reduce crime, rebuild trust, and bring peace to a community that has been asking for both visibility and accountability. 

“It’s vital for public safety,” Mayor Hardin said. “And it’s long overdue.”