Palm Coast Fire Chief Kyle Berryhill has been named interim deputy city manager by City Manager Mike McGlothlin, the Palm Coast government announced on Friday. Berryhill will step into the role while a recruitment process begins for a permanent deputy city manager.
McGlothlin’s appointment of Berryhill takes effect on Monday. The vacancy was created when Lauren Johnston opted to take the position of Flagler Schools Chief of Operations. She was hired by Superintendent LaShakia Moore, concluding Johnston’s 15-year career with the Palm Coast city government.
“Lauren stepped up when our organization needed her most, and her leadership helped carry us forward during an important time for Palm Coast,” McGlothlin said. “We are grateful for her many contributions and wish her continued success in her next chapter.”
Johnson was thrust into the role of city manager when the Palm Coast City Council voted to fire her successor, Denise Bevan, in March 2024. Johnston, who was previously the deputy city manager, remained with the city as an interim city manager until McGlothlin’s hire in November 2025. She lasted through four of five City Council seats changing to new members.
Kyle Berryhill has worked for the City of Palm Coast for over 20 years. He first joined the Palm Coast Fire Department in 2005, and has ascended the ranks steadily over his career. Berryhill was promoted to lieutenant in 2011, to captain in 2017, battalion chief in 2019, and fire chief in 2022 following the retirement of Jerry Forte.
“Kyle’s leadership, experience, and ability to perform under pressure make him exceptionally well-suited for this role,” McGlothlin continued. “He has a proven track record of leading through critical situations and a deep understanding of our organization. I am confident in his ability to help guide our team as we continue moving forward.”
While Berryhill serves as interim deputy city manager, the Palm Coast Fire Department will be led by Deputy Fire Chief Bradd Clark. He’ll be given the title of interim fire chief until Berryhill can return to his permanent role.
A recruitment process for a permanent deputy city manager will be undergone by the Palm Coast Human Resources department. In a statement Friday about the move, a city spokesperson says that the opportunity will be advertised both internally and externally. Johnston herself was an internal hire, having ascended to interim city manager from a starting job as recreation supervisor.
