HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem B2 B2
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
COUNTY of MONROE Mayor James K.Scholl,District 3
The Florida Keys Mayor Pro Tern Michelle Lincoln,District 2
Craig Cates,District 1
David Rice,District 4
Holly Merrill Raschein,District 5
Board of County Commissioners Meeting
December 10, 2025
Agenda Item Number: B2
2023-4822
BULK ITEM: No DEPARTMENT: Fire Rescue
TIME APPROXIMATE: STAFF CONTACT:
AGENDA ITEM WORDING: Recognition of Mark Hemeyer's promotion to Deputy Chief of
Operations.
ITEM BACKGROUND:
PREVIOUS RELEVANT BOCC ACTION:
INSURANCE REQUIRED:
No
CONTRACT/AGREEMENT CHANGES:
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
DOCUMENTATION:
Deputy Chief Mark He ever m pro otion.docx
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
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Monroe County Fire Rescue is proud to announce the confirmation of Mark Hemeyer as the
new Deputy Fire Chief of Operations. Born and raised in the Florida Keys, Hemeyer was born
at Fisherman's Hospital in Marathon and has called Islamorada home for the past 50 years. This
year also marks his 20th anniversary with the department.
Hemeyer's path through the fire service has been defined by hard work, dedication, and a hands-
on approach. Before becoming Deputy Chief, he served as a shift Battalion Chief and previously
as one of the department's Training Officers, building on his early career as a
Firefighter/Paramedic.
A graduate of Island Christian School, Hemeyer grew up working alongside his father at Ron
Hemeyer, Inc., building residential homes throughout the Keys. He also operated a small heavy-
equipment business. It was a fishing partner—who happened to be a Miami-Dade firefighter
who convinced him to change professions. Determined to pursue the calling, Hemeyer attended
night classes to earn his Emergency Medical Technician certification. He was also part of the
first Monroe County Fire Academy's Firefighter Minimum Standards class, training during
evenings and weekends while continuing his construction work.
Hemeyer joined Monroe County Fire Rescue in 2005 and has since continued to expand his
education and credentials. He completed his Paramedic certification, earned an associate's
degree in Fire Science, and obtained numerous officer and instructor certifications—all while
working full time.
Reflecting on his journey, Hemeyer says, `It was tough to work construction during the day and
keep up with the academics. But my knowledge in construction definitely helped with my fire
service career. I feel fortunate to have started a job in a career that I really enjoy. It is an
amazing experience to be able to give back to my community and raise my family in my
hometown. This is the greatest job in the world. "
Hemeyer continues to reside in Islamorada with his wife, Zully, their daughter, Mila, and their
sons, Mark Jr. and Hunter.
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