Ocala, Florida — First on Ocala Post — Marion County Fire Rescue fire chief M. Stuart McElhaney announced today that he is retiring after 21-years of service.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed working with our crews, citizens staff, and county leadership in both of my roles as fire chief and assistant county administrator,” McElhaney said. “I am proud of our achievements and service improvements over the past two decades, and know the department will continue on the path to greater success and service excellence.”
McElhaney first joined Marion County as fire chief in 1994. In 2003 he was promoted to the dual role of fire chief and bureau chief. Then, in 2009 McElhaney took on the role of fire chief and county administrator.
McElhaney led the department through the Emergency Medical Services Alliance (EMSA) transition by which MCFR assumed countywide ambulance services in 2008.
“I am very thankful for Chief McElhaney’s quality work and contributions to Marion County and our citizens,” Interim County Administrator  Bill Kauffman said. “His leadership and diligent efforts helped build a strong Fire Rescue department and supported many other county departments in their continued mission of providing excellent public services.”
McElhaney will retire on July 31, 2015.
McElhaney did not immediately give a reason for his retirement.