Manatee County Emergency Medical Services chief resigns

MANATEE -- The chief of Manatee County Emergency Medical Services resigned Wednesday, according to a letter sent out to EMS personnel.

Steve Krivjanik's last day was Wednesday.

Deputy Chief Paul DiCicco was appointed to fill the role of acting chief, according to a letter from Bob Smith, Manatee County director of public safety.

"As many of you know, Paul has successfully progressed through the ranks at MCEMS starting as a volunteer with our Auxiliary Unit," Smith said. "His experience and proven leadership and management

skills will serve him well in this role and I have confidence in his ability to lead the Division."

Krivjanik served as the EMS chief for a year and eight months. He has been involved in fire rescue and EMS services for more than 30 years, coming to Manatee County after retiring as the assistant fire rescue chief at the Broward County Sheriff's Office in 2012.

Officials gave no reason for his resignation. Krivjanik declined to comment.

The International Association of EMTs and Paramedics Local 747, the Manatee County union, posted the news about Krivjanik's departure on its Facebook page Wednesday night.

"We would like to extend our thanks to Chief Krivjanik for all his hard work and dedication to MCEMS," the post reads. "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."

This story was originally published February 25, 2016 at 11:47 PM with the headline "Manatee County Emergency Medical Services chief resigns ."