Polk County confirms Sean Smith as permanent Fire Rescue chief

The Polk County Board of County Commissioners on March 4 confirmed Sean Smith as Polk County Fire Rescue Services' permanent fire chief, effective March 4, 2025.

County Manager Mr. Beasley recommended Smith's confirmation, saying Smith served as interim chief since September 13, 2024, has been with Polk County Fire Rescue for 21 years and has held every rank from company officer to assistant chief of business services. The board approved the appointment by voice vote; the motion carried.

The recommendation noted Smith's experience in training, operations and business services, and said the position is funded within the FY24-25 adopted budget. Mr. Beasley told commissioners Smith led the department's training division reforms, managed daily operations across the county's stations and assisted in replacing an aging apparatus fleet.

Smith addressed the commission after the motion, thanking the board and Polk County Fire Rescue staff. "I would be honored to serve as a Polk County Fire Rescue Fire Chief," Smith said. He also thanked family members present in the chamber and referenced his stated leadership priorities.

No roll-call tally was provided in the meeting transcript; the board recorded the motion as carried. The transcript indicates the confirmation is effective immediately and that funding is available in the designated fire fund to cover the chief's base salary and benefits.

Background: the Polk County Charter requires the manager's appointment of executive service employees to be confirmed by the Board of County Commissioners; the transcript notes Smith had been serving as interim chief prior to today's confirmation.

The board did not conduct an extended deliberation; commissioners who spoke during the item were asked if they had further discussion before the voice vote. Smith's appointment will be reflected in county personnel records and payroll starting with the effective date cited at the hearing.