- April 30, 2026
At least five firefighters with the Flagler Beach Fire Department have resigned in recent weeks, citing a difference in leadership approach and an unsupportive work environment.
According to the letters submitted to the Observer, the resignations include the city's deputy fire chief, fire inspector, two lieutenants and one firefighter. Three of their letters reference a difference of opinion on how leadership should support employees and create a safe working environment.
The FBFD is led by Fire Chief Stephen Cox, who was promoted to the position in May 2025 after the retirement of longtime Fire Chief Robert Pace. Cox has worked for FBFD for about 15 years, previously serving as its deputy fire chief.
According to the FBFD website, the department is staffed by 11 firefighters and six support members.
Current Deputy Fire Chief Jennifer Fiveash submitted her letter of resignation to the city's Human Resources director and city manager on April 15, with her final day being May 8.
"After careful consideration, I have determined that continuing in this role is not the right fit," she wrote. "This decision is based on professional differences in leadership approach, particularly regarding how I believe employees should be supported and served."
In an email to Flagler Beach City Commissioners on Thursday, April 30, City Manager Dale Martin said he and the city's HR director were looking into the issues relating to the fire department. Martin said he had conducted several interviews with personnel, including Cox and Fiveash, with more scheduled to learn more about the issues cited in the resignation letters.
"Some of the resignations are related to enhanced career opportunities in other agencies (pay, benefits, long-term growth), while others reflect significant concerns with professional leadership," Martin wrote in his email. "All of those issues will be scrutinized as part of the efforts to restore the Fire Department to full staffing. Job listings have already been posted (and some interest and applications received).
"Public safety is the most critical service provided to City residents and the remaining members of the Fire Department remain committed to their call to serve this community and ensure its safety," Martin continued. "Medical response and transport continue to be provided by Flagler County without interruption, while the Fire Department is being supplemented by personnel provided by other County agencies."
Fiveash's resignation letter also stated that her decision was not made lightly, as line staff deserve "consistent support from their administration in their day-to-day roles."
"There should also be cohesion at the administrative level built on trust, which I believe is critical to effectively leading and supporting the organization."
Her exit triggered at least two lieutenants to quit as well, according to their letters of resignation. The firefighters stated that without Fiveash, they didn't feel Flagler Beach Fire was a safe or supportive environment.
The Observer reached out to Chief Stephen Cox for comment.
