City of Palm Coast Welcomes James Macfarlane as New Deputy City Manager

The City of Palm Coast is pleased to announce that James C. Macfarlane II will join the organization as Deputy City Manager beginning September 21, 2026.

Macfarlane has more than 25 years of experience and leadership in municipal government, public safety, emergency management, and organizational administration. Throughout his career, he has served in executive and command-level positions across municipal, county, and higher education organizations, leading complex operations, managing multimillion-dollar budgets, and building collaborative partnerships that strengthen public service.

Most recently, Macfarlane served as a Sheriff's Captain and Division Commander with the Columbia County Sheriff's Office in Oregon, where he oversaw 24-hour operations, managed sworn and civilian personnel, managed budgets and capital resources, and worked closely with elected officials, community stakeholders, and regional partners. 

"James brings a tremendous depth of leadership experience and a proven ability to build strong teams, solve complex challenges, and deliver results," said City Manager Mike McGlothlin. "His background in organizational leadership, strategic planning, budgeting, and public service makes him an outstanding addition to Palm Coast's executive leadership team. I am excited to welcome him and look forward to the positive impact he will have on our employees and our community."

Macfarlane holds a Juris Doctor from Willamette University College of Law, a Master of Business Administration from Marylhurst University, a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from the University of Alabama, and a Bachelor of Science in Administration of Justice from Portland State University. He has also completed more than 6,000 hours of professional training and maintains advanced executive-level law enforcement certifications in the State of Oregon.

"I am honored to join the City of Palm Coast and grateful for the opportunity to serve this community," said Macfarlane. "I look forward to working alongside City Manager McGlothlin, the Mayor and City Council, City staff, and our residents as we continue building on Palm Coast's strong foundation and delivering exceptional service. I truly have found Palm Coast to be a very special community.”

As Deputy City Manager, Macfarlane will assist in overseeing municipal operations, implementing strategic initiatives, supporting organizational excellence, and helping ensure the efficient delivery of services across City departments.

Macfarlane's appointment reflects the City's continued commitment to attracting experienced, service-oriented leaders who are dedicated to operational excellence, transparency, and delivering exceptional customer service to the Palm Coast community.

For more information about the City of Palm Coast, visit https://www.palmcoast.gov/city-manager/dcm Top of Form

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