MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — An EMS chief resigned and seven paramedics left to pursue other job opportunities Wednesday.
The Herald Tribune reported Chief Stephen Krivjanik, with Manatee County EMS, served in his position for nearly two years.
“We would like to extend our thanks to Chief Krivjanik for all his hard work and dedication to MCEMS. He has dedicated his life to public service and was an invaluable asset to the department during his tenure. We wish him a heartfelt farewell and best wishes on his next adventure,” the International Association of EMTs and Paramedics Local 747 wrote on its Facebook page.
Krivjanik resigned without any public comment or explanation. His resignation comes after the EMS department urged county officials for a better contract and wages. Seven paramedics left the department after commissioners approved a new contract. Officials said the departures were to accept jobs targeted during the contract debate.
A spokesman for the department said five of the seven positions have been filled and the two other positions are expected to be filled soon.
Last year, the county reported a 17 percent turnover rate, according to MySunCoast.com.
“We think this new contact is going to help address some of that turnover,” public safety director Bob Smith said.