In a field where the typical career in one town or city often spans less than seven years, Indialantic Town Manager Chris Chinault has spent 19 years serving one community.
But during a December meeting of the town council last year, Chinault announced he would resign his position, effective at 5 p.m., July 12, 2019.
He was first hired as town manager in March 2000, and has since served under numerous town councils and three mayors, including current Mayor Dave Berkman, the longest-serving mayor in town history, who he has worked alongside for 11 years.
Following Chinault’s announcement, Berkman acknowledged the “huge difference” he has made in the town over the years. “Chris Chinault has served our town and has done an excellent job,” Berkman said. “Over the last few years we have especially worked together very well, and he will be missed.”
According to the International City/County Management Association, it’s not unusual for a town/city manager to change positions every three years.
Compared to three nearby barrier island communities, Chinault is currently the longest-serving beachside town manager of the four. Indian Harbour Beach city manager Mark Ryan was appointed in 2014, Satellite Beach’s Courtney Barker took on her post in 2013 and Melbourne Beach’s Robert Daniels was hired on in 2017 – in a town that has had four town managers since 2006.
Chinault isn’t just leaving his post; he will also be bidding a fond farewell to the town he cherished, as he and his wife plan to move up north to be closer to their grandchildren.
“My grandchildren reside in North Carolina and Maryland and I would like to spend time with them before they grow up,” Chinault said.
“It was never my intent to stay in this position for such a long period of time. However, no matter where I looked when other job openings occurred, I could not find a community of nicer people than those which are right here in this town.”
The town manager is appointed by the town council and serves as the chief administrative officer. He is charged with managing the staff and implementing the council’s vision for the town through that management.
To find his replacement, Berkman said the town will look at internal applicants first.
