John Whalen Takes Helm as New Fire Chief, Vows to Enhance Safety in Coral Springs-Parkland

June 28, 2024 • By Sharon Aron Baron

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John Whalen Takes Helm as New Fire Chief, Vows to Enhance Safety in Coral Springs-Parkland

Coral Springs City Manager Frank Babinec swearing in Chief Whalen. {City of Coral Springs}

In a formal Transfer of Command Ceremony on June 28, Chief John Whalen was sworn in as the new Fire Chief for the Coral Springs-Parkland Fire Department (CSPFD).

He succeeds his close friend, Chief Michael McNally, who is retiring.

As Fire Chief, Whalen will oversee the safety of Coral Springs and Parkland residents and manage over 200 personnel.

“I am very humbled and honored to lead this incredible organization,” said Whalen. “I look forward to continuing to work with the dedicated men and women who proudly serve the community.”

With 28 years in the department, Whalen has held various roles, including Deputy Fire Chief, from February 2020 to June 2024. He also served as Interim Fire Chief before being promoted to Deputy Chief.

Coral Springs City Manager Frank Babinec praised Whalen, saying, “I feel confident that you will leave a lasting mark on our department and make our community even safer.”

Whalen has also contributed as Assistant Chief for Bravo Shift and Deputy Chief of Operations, focusing on training and safety initiatives according to the city.

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Sharon Aron Baron

Editor of Talk Media and writer for Coral Springs Talk. CST was created in 2012 to provide News, Views, and Entertainment for the residents of Coral Springs and the rest of South Florida.