Politics
Palm Coast Deputy City Manager to depart, with Fire Chief stepping in
The top administrative office has seen notable instability in the past 2 years in Palm Coast.
Palm Coast is again reshuffling its administrative leadership after a turbulent past two years.
Deputy City Manager Lauren Johnston is preparing to leave her post for other professional opportunities. Meanwhile, City Manager Michael McGlothlin has moved Palm Coast Fire Chief Kyle Berryhill in as the interim Deputy City Manager.
Johnston was instrumental in bringing stability to the administrative offices of Palm Coast for about two years. She was appointed acting City Manager after the City Council abruptly fired City Manager Denise Bevan in 2024, barely a year into Bevan’s tenure.
Johnston served as acting City Manager until a permanent replacement was found. That turned out to be McGlothlin, who was hired in December.
A Palm Coast news release didn’t specify where Johnston is headed, but McGlothlin said her services have been invaluable.
“Lauren stepped up when our organization needed her most, and her leadership helped carry us forward during an important time for Palm Coast,” McGlothlin said. “We are grateful for her many contributions and wish her continued success in her next chapter.”
McGlothlin is working with the city’s human resources officials to develop a recruiting approach to replace Johnston.
McGlothlin added that he’s confident that Berryhill’s management experience will provide a smooth transition as he moves from the Fire Department to City Hall.
“Kyle’s leadership, experience, and ability to perform under pressure make him exceptionally well-suited for this role,” McGlothlin said. “He has a proven track record of leading through critical situations and a deep understanding of our organization.”
Berryhill has been with the Palm Coast Fire Department for more than two decades, advancing to Chief in 2022. He also serves as the city’s Incident Commander during major emergency events, such as hurricanes and other severe weather, leading operational response and coordination among Palm Coast Departments.
Deputy Fire Chief Bradd Clark will become interim Fire Chief.