BRADENTON BEACH – During last week’s Bradenton Beach Commission meeting, Mayor Bill Shearon asked Deputy Clerk Marie Montoya to read aloud an e-mail that praised the efforts of Officer Steve Masi.
City resident and Bay Tides Condominium President Jim Lynch sent the e-mail to Police Chief Sam Speciale and the city commission members on Monday, Feb. 13.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank and commend Officer Steve Masi for his outstanding performance yesterday when he responded to a trespass offense at Bay Tides Condo in Bradenton Beach. Officer Masi showed tremendous competency, wisdom, maturity and strength in the way he handled our call for assistance.
“This type of service makes our residents really appreciate what you guys do for all of us. This recognition is important, especially during times when some citizens do not understand how hard your jobs really are, and how much expertise and patience it takes to perform your jobs well. Officer Masi was a great selection to our city’s police force and he is a real keeper. Please convey our thanks to Officer Masi,” Lynch’s e-mail said.
In reference to a certificate of accommodation Masi received in 2014, when he came to the rescue of a woman who had accidentally set herself on fire, Vice Mayor John Chappie said, “This is not the first time that Officer Masi has been recognized.”
At that time, Masi was off-duty and serving as a reserve officer. Last October, he was promoted to a full-time position on the police force.
“It’s important we recognize these guys and it says a lot for Officer Masi’s character,” Chappie said.
Shearon agreed and said that was why he asked to have the e-mail read aloud and entered into the public record.
While patrolling Bridge Street Friday night, Masi was congratulated for the recognition he received from Lynch and the commission. Masi said he loves being a Bradenton Beach police officer and he plans to remain with the department for a long time.
