NEWS RELEASE 25-050 - SEPTEMBER 17, 2025
The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) in partnership with the Sarasota County Public Safety Communications Center (PSCC) will launch a new service that uses text messaging to allow citizens to provide feedback after interaction with the PSCC.
Starting on Monday, September 22, 2025, residents and visitors of Sarasota County will be some of the first in the state to use the new software which allows us to better connect with those we serve.
Starting on Monday, September 22, 2025, residents and visitors of Sarasota County will be some of the first in the state to use the new software which allows us to better connect with those we serve.
“In today’s on-demand society, we understand how important it is to keep citizens informed. Much like private companies use tools to send automatic text message notifications, updates, and satisfaction surveys to their customers, SCSO is now able to do the same,” said Sheriff Hoffman. “We expect that this new solution, PowerEngage, will drastically enhance communication with the citizens we serve.”
The text messages are sent after predetermined incidents, asking citizens to take a quick survey about their experience during their call for service. It will also allow citizens to provide their own comments, feedback, or take the opportunity to thank a call-taker.
“Serving our community on their worst day is a responsibility we hold in the highest regard at Sarasota County, and being able to receive feedback directly from our residents is vital to strengthening our programs and response,” said Sarasota County Emergency Services director Rich Collins. “We encourage residents to fill out this survey when they receive it.”
With PowerEngage, text message surveys are sent to those whose number is recorded as part of a call for service or a report. Even if they did not receive a text message, citizens can take a text message survey and provide feedback by clicking this link: Click to Access Survey
Residents that do not want to participate can simply not respond or reply with “STOP”, and that will opt them out of all future text surveys from the agency. These surveys should not be used to report any type of emergency or crime. Always call 9-1-1 for any emergency or to report any criminal activity.