By Corporal Brian Schnell, Public Information Officer

“That guy is an absolute wealth of knowledge” is how Chief Fred Maas describes Jim Watts, and now after 48 years of public service this dedicated and knowledgeable public servant is ready to move on.  “It’s time to pull the plug, and enjoy the rest of my life” Watts said in a letter to the Chief.  “It’s time to relax and enjoy my family.” He added. 

Mr. Watts, after serving in the Vietnam War, served the local community as a member of the Miami Dade Police Department.   He patrolled “Sunny Isles Beach” long before the city incorporated in 1997.  He retired from Miami Dade Police as a Lieutenant and went on to become the Public Works Director for the City of Sunny Isles Beach, then returned to the Police Department as civilian support staff.  “I’m ending it where I started it.” Watts said with a laugh, “with the police department.”

In recent months Jim Watts has been the man behind the camera, reviewing the newly introduced “Red Light Camera” program.  He was tasked with the day to day operation of the program and the review of potential violators.  “You can’t hide from the camera.” He’d often say when reviewing the violations.  Jim Watts was much more than a good employee though.  In addition to being a devoted husband, father and grand-father, Jim Watts is a great friend, and a real gentleman.  He will be missed sorely.

Whenever there was a need for an extra set of helping hands, Jim Watts was always eager to volunteer.  From assistance after a Hurricane, to fundraising for the March of Dimes, he was there.  Not because he had to be, or because he was expected to be, but because he wanted to be there.  In addition to all this, there were countless weekends (his days off) when you would find Jim Watts here, at the police department, fixing something or building something for someone.  Few people are as dependable and as skilled at so many things as Jim Watts.

Jim Watts’ last day was on June 4, 2010.  I had the occasion to say farewell on Tuesday the 1st.  In true Jim Watts style he showed me a two page list of what he called “honey-do’s”.   It had everything from “waxing the cars” to “building a shed” on it.   He handed me the sheets and said “See I’m just retiring from here, I’ll still be working.  The only difference is now I have a new boss, my wife, I have a lot more work to do and I’m not going to get paid for any of it!”  Did I forget to mention his sense of humor?   Our Police family will certainly miss this incredibly talented and genuine man.  Congratulations on your well deserved and hard earned retirement!