City of Palm Coast Mourns the Passing of First Mayor Jim Canfield

The City of Palm Coast is saddened to share the news of the passing of James “Jim” Canfield, Palm Coast’s first mayor and Chair of the Home Rule Executive Committee that helped lead the community through the incorporation process. He was 96. 

Canfield’s leadership helped bring residents together during a time when Palm Coast was growing quickly and the community was deciding what it wanted to become. As chair of the Home Rule Executive Committee, he helped guide the public conversation and the steps needed for Palm Coast to become its own city. The incorporation referendum was held on Sept. 21, 1999, and voters approved the measure. Municipal elections followed later that year, and Canfield was elected as Palm Coast’s first mayor.

Canfield served as mayor through 2007 and was re-elected in 2003. During those early years, he worked closely with the City’s first Council members, Jim Holland, Jerry Full, Bill Venne, and Ralph Carter, as they helped set the direction for Palm Coast as a new city. Together, they focused on building the foundation of local government and creating a shared vision for the community’s future.

After leaving office, Canfield remained active in the community and continued advocating for local history, including leadership with the Palm Coast Historical Society. He also participated in major civic milestones in later years, including remarks during the 2015 dedication of City Hall in Town Center. 

“Jim Canfield helped guide Palm Coast through its earliest and most important chapter, the transition from a growing community to an incorporated city. His leadership brought people together during a defining time for Palm Coast, and the foundation he helped build continues to serve our residents today,” said Palm Coast Mayor Mike Norris. “On behalf of the City of Palm Coast, we extend our condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew him. He will be remembered, and he will be missed.”

The City of Palm Coast extends its sincere appreciation for Jim Canfield’s years of public service and his role in helping shape the foundation of our city. His commitment to collaboration, civic stewardship, and Palm Coast’s potential left a lasting impact, and he will be missed by residents, colleagues, and all who knew him. 

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