The search for a new Port St. Lucie Police Chief continues

The City of Port St. Lucie has three finalists left in their search for the new Port St. Lucie Police Chief.

The city is now looking for input from the public on the candidates by creating a hotline for citizens to leave a message about candidates.

They will also have a question and answer session for the public Saturday at 2 p.m. at city hall.

The three candidates in the race are Michael Deal, Craig Novick and Jerry Speziale.

Michael Deal is the current deputy chief at the Altamonte Springs Police Department.

Craig Novick is the manager and public safety director for the Franklin Township in Somerset County, N.J.

Jerry Speziale is the deputy superintendent at the New York and New Jersey Port Authority Police Department.

The hotline number to leave a message is 772-344-4301. 

The Mayor of Port St. Lucie, JoAnn Faiella, said the city manager ultimately picks the chief, but wants the public's input in order to make sure they put the right person in place.