Palm Bay, Fla. – The City of Palm Bay announced Thursday that Assistant Fire Chief Brandon McKee was terminated effective immediately. The city’s spokesperson confirmed the decision after a termination letter dated August 20 was sent to McKee.
Termination details
The letter states the city acted “in the best interest” of its fire department and references Personnel Policies, Rule 1: General Terms and Conditions of Employment. It reads, “After careful consideration and in accordance with Personnel Policies, Rule 1: General Terms and Conditions of Employment, the City has determined that it is in the best interest to proceed with the immediate termination of your employment.” The notice also notes that the City Manager’s decision on the matter is final and binding.
As an at‑will employee, McKee—or the city—could end the employment relationship at any time “with or without cause and without prior notice,” the letter reiterates. No further explanation of the cause for termination was provided in the public statement.
City response
The city spokesperson declined to comment further, emphasizing that the termination complied with existing personnel policies and that the decision was final. No appeal process was mentioned, and the fire department’s operations continue without interruption.
Impact on the fire department
While the assistant fire chief’s departure creates a vacancy in the department’s leadership, city officials indicated that senior staff will assume interim responsibilities until a replacement is appointed. The Palm Bay Fire Department has not released a timeline for hiring a new assistant chief.
Background on at‑will employment
Florida law permits municipalities to employ staff on an at‑will basis, meaning either party may terminate employment at any time, for any reason, or for no reason at all, provided the termination does not violate anti‑discrimination statutes. This framework gives city managers flexibility to make staffing changes they deem necessary for public safety and fiscal responsibility.
Community members and local media have been notified of the development, and the story will be updated as additional information becomes available.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
