Flagler Beach appoints Lance Branchett as police chief

The Flagler Beach City Commission on April 23 unanimously moved forward with the appointment of Lance Branchett as police chief.

The city manager introduced the appointment and said the choice followed an oral-board process that recommended Branchett for the post. Branchett addressed the commission and community, thanking the city manager, city attorney, commissioners and Flagler Beach Police Department colleagues "for standing by me" and pledging to work hard in the role.

Branchett said the promotion "took 35 years of hard work to get here," and asked the community for patience as he transitions into the position and addresses department priorities.

The appointment drew congratulations from the commission and brief remarks from staff highlighting collaborative work ahead. No formal vote was recorded in the transcript beyond the manager's announcement and public recognition; the commission and city manager indicated the appointment will proceed under the standard administrative process.

The commission also used the meeting to thank outgoing leaders and noted upcoming staffing and training efforts in the police department.

The commission adjourned with routine business still scheduled for future meetings; staff plans to bring implementation details, onboarding and next steps to a subsequent meeting.