Coral Gables commissioners have directed the city manager to study whether the police department should expand its mounted patrol unit.

The commission adopted Resolution 2026-254 on Sept. 15, directing the city manager to evaluate the feasibility of expanding the unit and report findings and recommendations. At the same meeting, the department presented its mounted patrol horses, Merrick and Scarlet, according to the City Commission agenda.

Mounted patrol already serves the city

The mounted unit is part of the Coral Gables Police Department’s Specialized Enforcement Division, the department’s website says. The city’s 2025-26 adopted budget says the unit provides high-visibility patrols, responds to special and community events and ceremonies, helps deter crime and engages in community policing.

Two horses introduced in September

The Sept. 15 presentation introduced Merrick and Scarlet. A Coral Gables Magazine column published Oct. 27 by former Mayor Don Slesnick also described the horses as patrolling city streets and engaging with pedestrians and children.

City review will guide any expansion

The resolution directs an evaluation and a report of findings and recommendations. It does not itself approve an expansion or specify how many horses or officers would be added.