James C. Macfarlane II has been hired as Palm Coast’s new deputy city manager, a city spokesperson announced on Wednesday. Macfarlane will work alongside City Manager Mike McGlothlin when he begins his new job on Monday, September 21.
Currently Macfarlane works as a Sheriff’s Captain and Division Commander with the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office in Oregon. A statement from the Palm Coast city government says in this role Macfarlane “oversaw 24-hour operations, managed sworn and civilian personnel, managed budgets and capital resources, and worked closely with elected officials, community stakeholders, and regional partners”.
“I am honored to join the City of Palm Coast and grateful for the opportunity to serve this community,” Macfarlane said. “I look forward to working alongside City Manager McGlothlin, the Mayor and City Council, City staff, and our residents as we continue building on Palm Coast’s strong foundation and delivering exceptional service. I truly have found Palm Coast to be a very special community.”
When he begins his job next week, Macfarlane will take over from Palm Coast Fire Chief Kyle Berryhill. Berryhill served as interim Deputy City Manager after the departure of Lauren Johnston to accept a job in Flagler Schools in March 2026.
“James brings a tremendous depth of leadership experience and a proven ability to build strong teams, solve complex challenges, and deliver results,” McGlothlin said. “His background in organizational leadership, strategic planning, budgeting, and public service makes him an outstanding addition to Palm Coast’s executive leadership team. I am excited to welcome him and look forward to the positive impact he will have on our employees and our community.”
The Palm Coast Deputy City Manager provides a supportive role to the City Manager in the executive direction of the city. Whereas the Mayor and City Council are only authorized to issue direction to the City Manager themself, the City Manager and Deputy City Manager are the chief leadership officers for every other employee of the city government.
Prior to joining the City of Palm Coast, Macfarlane’s public resume lists exclusively law enforcement experience. He’s worked as an officer in deputy in several Oregon jurisdictions: Clackamas County, Columbia County, and the cities of Beaverton, Florence, Gladstone, and Scappoose.
Macfarlane holds a Juris Doctor from Willamette University College of Law, a Master of Business Administration from Marylhurst University, a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from the University of Alabama, and a Bachelor of Science in Administration from Portland State University.
