Photos for Headline Surfer / TOP: Christopher Kirk is officially sworn in as the new police chief of New Smyrna Beach by Mayor Fred Cleveland. LEFT: Chris Kirk's police chief's badge is pinned on him by his wife, Tahnee Kirk, as the mayor looks on.
By HENRY FREDERICK / Headline Surfer
NEW SMYRNA BEACH, Fla. -- With Christopher Kirk officially sworn in Monday as New Smyrna Beach PD's new top cop, the city is looking to hire its next deputy chief of police.
New Smyrna Beach said of the unfilled position: "This is a unique opportunity for an experienced, people-focused leader to join a dynamic coastal community and lead strategic initiatives, enhance community engagement, and oversee daily operations. Ready to make a difference? Apply now at CITYOFNSB.COM/JOBS."
The job pays $120 annually, and applications close on May 15.
Kirk was sworn in Monday as the new police chief by Mayor Fred Cleveland at the Brannon Center before the annual state of the city address, which the mayor gave.
Other items taken up by the New Smyrna Beach City Commision on Monday night:
• Awarded a $250,000 Community Redevelopment Agency grant to Looking Good Properties, LLC, toward a new 4-unit, 4,800 sq. ft. commercial building at 312 Mary Ave;
• Accepted a $15,000 donation for a new Paige Avenue pickleball pavilion from the NSB Pickleball Club;
• Heard updates on affordable housing projects by Housing Authority Executive Director Teresa Pope and Volusia County stormwater efforts by Public Works Director Ben Bartlett;
• Approved a second $1.25 million FDOT grant amendment toward a new 4,000 sq. ft. airport office building featuring a museum display and visitor amenities;
• Delayed a vote on new landscaping and tree preservation regulations that would have established minimum standards, mandated Florida-friendly practices, enhanced compatibility between different land uses, incentivized developers to retain mature trees, and clarified tree removal permitting to solicit more public feedback; a workshop on the topic has been scheduled for May 15;
• Approved the first reading of an ordinance to rezone 1,618 acres at the southwest corner of I-95 & S.R. 44 from Prime Agriculture, Forestry Resource, and Conservation to Planned Unit Development for the proposed Deering Park Innovation Center; the final reading and public hearing will be held May 13.
Previously-Reported Coverage
New Smyrna Beach's new top cop now making $165,000; City was silent for 3 days on his pay / Published: Sat, 04/12/2025 - 08:07
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