By Chuck Seaver, South Lake Tablet
The Clermont Police Department (CPD) held its bi-monthly Coffee with a Cop, a community relations event, on Wednesday, May 20 at SevenMade, 685 Seventh Street, Clermont. Coffee with a Cop is a program designed to enhance community member relationship with law enforcement officers and the citizens of the communities that they serve. Businesses throughout the area often host the Coffee with a Cop program to exhibit not only support of the community but also support of the local first responders in the community. It also provides a neutral location for real conversations about issues that matter.
Sgt. Erin Razo, the department’s Community Relations Supervisor, announced that the department’s annual summer youth-related activities are planned and set to go beginning in June. The CPD has had a long tradition of summer programs that enhance interaction with youth and young adults.
June 4 – A teen summit from 5 pm – 8 pm at the Clermont Police Department, 3600 South Highway 27. The summit will include topics covering the hazards of vaping, drug education and K-9 demonstrations. Guests will also see other real-life police demonstrations up-close. Music, refreshments, giveaways and the opportunity to have real conversations with the police officers will provide an opportunity for teens to “get stuff off of their chest.” Register for the free event by clicking https://www.eventbrite.com/e/clermont-police-department-teen-summit-2026-tickets-1986824956930?aff=oddtdtcreator
June and July, each Wednesday from 9 am- 11 am. The CPD will also be hosting “Community Service Hours Opportunity” in June and July. Teens in grades 9-12 can accrue needed service hours while making a difference in our community. Sgt. Razo states that various tasks will be available for three students each day, either around the station or other safe places that will include adult supervision. The only exception will be July 1s t– there will be no availabilities on this day. Preregistration is required and can be completed by contacting Mary Verrier at mverrier@clermontfl.org.
The 2nd Annual “Hoops with Cops” will be returning in June. Police Chief John Graczyk implemented the youth program last summer as a trial run with great success. The free event will be held at recreation parks throughout the city from 9 am – 11 am.
The free event is open to youth and does not require preregistration.
June 4 – Waterfront Park, 100 3rd Street
June 18 – Skyridge Park, Skyridge Valley Subdivision
July 9 – Lake Felter Park, 1750 Johns Lake Road
July 23 – Palatlakaha Park, 1250 12th Street-
Contact Ofc. Antonio Robinson at arobinson@clermontfl.org for additional information.
The Clermont Police Department continues to seek certified police officers for hire. The beginning salary starts at $65,405 with an increase for prior experience. Benefits include participation in the department’s take-home vehicle program, specialized units within the department and a 20-year retirement plus health benefits package.
Police cadet academy sponsorship positions are available through a candidate selection process. The Clermont Police Department will pay cadets an hourly wage to participants while they are enrolled in the police academy. Interested people may inquire further at www.joincpdfl.com.
Visit the Clermont Police Department (FL)Facebook page for continuing updates to summer season and community event schedules.
