Sarasota County welcomes David Rathbun as the fire department’s next Fire Chief following a nationwide search. Throughout his more than 30 years of service at Orange County Fire Rescue, Rathbun rose through the ranks, providing direction and leadership for nearly every division during the span of his career with the department. Rathbun started with Orange County Fire Rescue as a firefighter/EMT in 1989 and has served as a lieutenant, battalion chief, assistant chief, division chief of logistics, division chief of operations and division chief of planning and technical services. He retired as the department’s Deputy Fire Chief in January. Throughout his 32 years with OCFR, Rathbun managed fire operations, emergency medical services and special operations, fleet and equipment needs for the department with more than 1,500 personnel. He developed standard operating procedures, long-term station location and facility capital improvement plans, implemented a strategic planning process and new computer aided dispatch system as well as managed the department’s re-accreditation.

“The opportunity to work with the heroes of Sarasota County Fire Department is an extraordinary one. I look forwarding to getting to know them and deepen the ties we have with our residents and visitors,” Rathbun said. Rathbun holds a master's degree in public administration and a bachelor's degree in business management and marketing. He also proudly served in the United States Navy from 1983 to 1987. Rathbun is a native Floridian and is married to his wife Michele. Together they have five children and eight grandchildren. He is expected to start his new role with SCFD on Nov. 7, 2022.

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