Palm Harbor & Oldsmar Fire Fighters

06/16/2026

06/14/2026

Members of Local 2980: Palm Harbor & Oldsmar Professional Firefighters, were proud to represent at the Florida Professional Firefighters Convention in Jacksonville this year. We gathered alongside firefighters and leaders from across the state to sharpen our knowledge on labor-management relations, contract negotiations, and the legislative issues that directly impact both our members and the communities we protect. One of the biggest conversations this year: the upcoming property tax changes heading to the ballot. These decisions affect every Floridian. Together, we grow stronger as union leaders so we can serve you better.

06/06/2026

A huge thank you to retired member Dave Lannon!

While visiting Florida, Dave took time out of his trip to re-sand and re-seal a bench dedicated to the late McKenna Brown, daughter of one of our own. The bench was in need of some TLC and thanks to Dave’s hard work and generosity, it is looking absolutely beautiful again. This is the kind of person Dave is. He’s retired from the job, but never retired from caring for his brothers, sisters, and the people who matter most to them. That dedication doesn’t stop when you turn in your gear. Dave, we are truly grateful. McKenna’s memory lives on, and it’s people like you who make sure of that

06/04/2026

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Data reviewed by Poliverse from the Pinellas County Property Appraiser has revealed that fire rescue services across the county are slated for massive cuts under HJR-203, the Florida House’s proposal to remove all non-school property taxes on homesteaded properties.

05/23/2026

Huge win for Florida firefighters!

Today, Governor DeSantis signed SB 984 (DiCeglie) relating to Firefighter Cancer Benefits into law. 🎉

This legislation ensures that firefighters battling terminal occupational cancer can spend their final days at home with their families without jeopardizing their family’s death benefit.

Beginning July 1, 2026, firefighters and their families will retain access to the cancer death benefit for one year after terminating employment.

Thank you to Senator Nick DiCeglie and Demi Busatta- State Representative for their leadership, and for all the members of the Legislature who supported this important clarification for Florida’s firefighters and their families. Thank you to Governor Ron DeSantis for signing this good bill into law.

This is an important step forward for firefighter families across Florida we were proud to champion. 🇺🇸🚒

05/14/2026

Congratulations Coty! We know you will do great things in your new role.

05/13/2026

Thank you for all you’ve done for Pinellas and Pasco citizens. We wish you the best in your well earned retirement!

I have been blessed to be trusted with an incredible 16 years of Legislative service. Though I have two years left on my term, Lee and I have decided the time has come to fully enjoy retirement, making as many memories as possible with friends and family.

It will be very hard to say goodbye to the wonderful people we’ve come to know and love through this process. I’ll certainly never be able to fully express my gratitude for your support over the years.

Attached is a copy of the letter I delivered to the Governor today announcing my retirement effective November 3rd. I look forward to continuing to serve Pasco and Pinellas Counties until then.

05/05/2026

Congratulations to our very own Local 2980 member, Liz on Fire!

04/15/2026

In his earlier years, Rodney Malpass was an active member of the Palm Harbor and Oldsmar Professional Firefighters, serving as both Palm Harbor DVP and President. His leadership and dedication made a lasting impact on our organization. Thank you for your years of service and support. We wish you all the best in this next chapter!

After 24 years of dedicated service, Palm Harbor Fire Rescue proudly recognizes the retirement of Deputy Chief of Operations Rodney Malpass.

Throughout his career, Chief Malpass has been a trusted leader within our organization, overseeing operations and ensuring the highest level of service to the residents of Palm Harbor and Pinellas County. His contributions span hazardous materials response, countywide incident support, and the advancement of innovative programs that have strengthened our operational capabilities.

A proud U.S. Army veteran, Chief Malpass led with a simple but powerful philosophy: mission, members, me—a reflection of his commitment to service, his team, and the community.

Chief Malpass leaves behind a legacy of leadership, professionalism, and dedication to the fire service.

We thank him for his years of service and wish him all the best in his retirement.

02/24/2026

Rest in Peace, brother