By LISA MACNEIL
HERNANDO SUN
It was a heartfelt and sentimental, yet impromptu announcement at the regular Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) meeting on January 14, 2019. Hernando County Deputy Fire Chief Kevin Carroll expressed his gratitude to serve the people of Hernando County, and its leadership. Indicating Chief Scott Hechler, who stood to his right, Carroll said, “It has been my absolute privilege and honor to have served under the leadership of Chief Hechler, and have been his Deputy Chief. It is only because of his mentoring and leadership that I am the Chief-level officer that I am today.”
Carroll also thanked the leadership of Groveland for the opportunity to take the next step in his career as the quickly – growing city’s Fire Chief.
The subject arose as the commissioners commended HCFR Command on a job well done with the Collective Bargaining Agreement resolution, and Commissioner Steve Champion mentioned Carroll’s upcoming move to Groveland.
Commissioner Jeff Holcomb ended his comments with, “Seriously? I’ve gotten to know and met (you) many years ago and decided to be a part of political office. Your ability to help me do this job from your perspective and your point of view has been tremendous. And thank God you never ran against me because you used to live in my district. I would have lost badly!”
Each commissioner thanked Carroll heartily for his many years of service to Hernando County.
“I couldn’t be happier for you, and I couldn’t be sadder for Hernando County,” Chairman John Mitten said, “It is an awesome opportunity for you. There are few people out there who are well-loved by everyone, and your name keeps coming up. It’s bittersweet, but it’s really great to see you go forward like you are.”
