Law enforcement across Flagler County has made it a priority to connect with the public, whether it is through youth programs, coffee with a cop or neighborhood watch programs.
In Flagler Beach, Chief Matt Doughney has been known to be especially creative, hosting rock painting parties, trunk or treat events and Toys for Tickets.
But his latest concept is nothing short of clever.
Starting on February 7th, Doughney will host his very first ‘Welcome Matt Monday’ event at Oceanside Beach Bar & Grill after announcing the new program on Monday at the Flagler Beach Business Bureau meeting held at the Wickline Center in Flagler Beach.
Ready to connect with the public, it’s a way for Doughney to highlight area businesses besides just the ones that serve doughnuts, while getting to know new members of the community and reconnect with others.
Known for his popular Doughnuts with Doughney events in the past, this builds on and expands the opportunity to connect and serve.
“I brought the idea over to Johnny from Oceanside as a way to connect public safety and private partnership, and being available to the community,” said Chief Doughney.
“I figured ‘roll out the welcome mat’. With my first name being Matt, I figured we’d go with ‘Welcome Matt’ and do it on the first Monday of every month,” he said.
For two to three hours each first Monday of the month, Doughney and his team will be on site, helping awareness for a local business, and having open dialogue with the community.
“Any business in the city of Flagler Beach that wants to host it, they’ll work through FB3 and get with me and I’ll have my staff and officers available to interact not only with the businesses, but the community that wants to come out,” shared Doughney.
“Some people don’t like coming to the police station, and they don’t know how to get in touch with the police chief, so just look on the police department’s Facebook or website and find out where I’ll be the first Monday of every month.”
The first “Welcome Matt Monday” is set for Monday, February 7, 2022 from 2-5 p.m. at Oceanside Beach Bar & Grill, located at 1848 S. Oceanshore Blvd. (A1A), Flagler Beach, FL.
