In the search for a new town manager, Indialantic officials didn’t need to look beyond town hall – their ideal candidate was already in the building.
Indialantic Chief of Police Michael Casey will leave his law enforcement position to take on his new role of town manager effective at 5 p.m. on July 12th.
In December, after 19 years as town manager, Chris Chinault announced he would resign his position in July. When Casey heard the news, he spoke with Chinault about applying for the position and Chinault agreed it was the right move – and even recommended Casey to the town council. During last month’s meeting, council members voted unanimously to approve an employment agreement with Casey as town manager, with a base salary of $102,174.
“I have been working with Chris to understand the requirements and responsibilities for almost two years and he has been a mentor to me, educating me on the many aspects of being town manager,” Casey said. “I believe that with my education and experience with municipal government, I have a lot to offer the residents of Indialantic and appreciate the town council’s belief in me.”
Indialantic Mayor Dave Berkman said he believes Casey is the right person for the job.
“We felt Mike’s experience and long career with town would bring the consistency and keep our history (at the) forefront in the transition,” Berkman said. “Mike is very dedicated to the town, is very good with budgets and is well respected by both town employees and our citizens. We are excited to see what changes he will bring with a fresh look in his new position.”
Casey earned a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Central Florida and a Master of Public Administration from Florida Institute of Technology.
He was hired by the Satellite Beach Police Department in 1986 and worked there until 1990 when he took a position with the Indialantic Police Department. At the time, he recalls one person on the civil service board expressed concern that he would only be a here a year or two and leave.
Casey assured the man that would not be the case – and he kept his word. Over the years, he’s had every job in the police department: dispatcher, patrol officer, detective, corporal, sergeant and chief of police.
“I believe that Indialantic is a special place and the quality of life for the residents is important. With that said, I want to continue to listen to residents, including the mayor and council on ways to improve and keep Indialantic that special place for the residents,” Casey said. “The town of Indialantic has many dedicated employees from administrative, police, fire and public works, who make the town a great place to live. These employees are an important part of the town and I want to continue to have quality, dedicated employees who serve the residents of Indialantic.”
He and his wife Tina have been married for 30 years. They have two children and three grandchildren.
“Over the years the Town of Indialantic has been like a family to me. There are many residents and employees where I have seen their families grow and they have seen mine,” Casey said. “Driving around town you see people and families walking or biking enjoying the quality of life.”
“Seeing the sunrise over the river and ocean is such a beautiful sight or the sun setting over the river from Riverside Park in the evening or taking a ride down to the beach enjoying the fresh breeze off the ocean,” Casey said. “Where else can you enjoy something like this but in Indialantic?”