Michael Handoga Named Dunedin's Next Fire Chief

Published on July 16, 2025

Deputy Fire Chief Michael Handoga has been named the next Fire Chief for the City of Dunedin, succeeding Chief Jeffrey Parks, who retires August 20.

A Countryside High School graduate, Handoga brings more than 23 years of fire service experience to the position. He began his career with St. Pete Beach Fire Department, advancing through the ranks to lieutenant before joining Largo Fire Rescue, where he served as Training Chief and Assistant Fire Marshal.

Handoga joined Dunedin Fire Rescue in 2016 as Deputy Fire Marshal and was promoted to Fire Marshal the following year. During his tenure, he oversaw key projects including the Fenway project, Dunedin Stadium renovation, City Hall construction and the development of Dunedin Commons. Since 2020, he has served as Deputy Fire Chief of Operations while continuing to lead the Fire Prevention Division.

Handoga will lead the department with a focus on operational readiness, strategic planning, personnel development and continued community engagement.

Please join the City in congratulating Deputy Fire Chief Handoga on his well-earned promotion to Chief and in extending sincere appreciation to Chief Parks for his years of dedicated service.