ZEPHYRHILLS - Capt. Randy Belasic, who is sharing leadership duties at the Police Department, threw his name in the hat for the vacant chief's job.
So far, 35 people have applied for the position, open since Jerry Freeman resigned July 30. Belasic is the only internal candidate.
Belasic, a 13-year veteran of the department, was a finalist for the job last year. He was promoted from sergeant to captain in November and has been in charge of uniform patrol, criminal investigations and payroll since Freeman's departure.
Belasic, 34, who has spent his entire career in Zephyrhills, said Tuesday that he wants the department to step up the bike patrol program and employ two police dogs so one is working every night.
Belasic said he originally thought he would not apply but has been encouraged by people inside and outside the department.
"It's just something that I've always wanted to do when I first got hired on," he said. "It's unfortunate that it had to be this way."
Freeman was forced to resign after City Manager Steve Spina said he lost confidence in Freeman's ability to lead.
Spina said he has not reviewed any applications yet. He will close the search for a new chief Sept. 19.
