Two months ago, Bruce Brooks’ resignation from the Holley-Navarre Fire District Board of Fire Commissioners left a void in the five-member all-volunteer board.

And as Navarre resident David Stone stepped up to fill Brooks’ seat No. 2 position on Nov. 23, another fire commissioner resigned.

Commissioner Ed Blick, who was appointed in the spring of 2008 to fill a vacancy left by Lauretta Aiken, submitted a letter of resignation, citing a time conflict with his new job.

“I have accepted a position which requires that I travel on an irregular schedule,” Blick stated in his letter. “I am not able to participate and therefore I feel I must vacate my seat on the board.

“I will remain a staunch supporter of the department and the district taxpayers, and wish you success in meeting the challenges facing the district.”

Blick had missed both the September and October commission meetings, as well as the Nov. 23 meeting.

Newly appointed Stone has been a Navarre resident since 1998 and believes himself to be well versed in the difficulties facing the department.

“I believe that they’re going through right now is something that all departments face at one time or another, either full time or volunteer,” he said. “I can see there will be a difficult road ahead, but I also recognize that now we have good management.”

Upon hearing of Brook’s resignation two months ago, Stone immediately submitted a letter of intent for his seat. Stone retired as a deputy fire chief from the Ocean City Wright Fire District, where he had worked since 1993. He started his career as a firefighter 22 years ago, moving up in ranks over the years.

While at Ocean City Wright, he participated in formulating and administrating an annual budget of more than $3 million, and supervised three stations and a communications center, which were manned by 50 personnel.

“I feel these experiences give me a unique advantage in serving on the board,” Stone said.

Currently, only Commissioner J.E. Blankenship has a background in firefighting, having worked as a volunteer firefighter with the Holley-Navarre Fire District when the district started.

Both Commission Chair Rob Miodus and Commissioner Nancy Morgan have a background in business.

“I believe that I could offer valuable insight into the potential areas of concern,” Stone said. “I want to see the district maximize the use of the taxpayers funds and to see them take care of their employees. They are the most valuable asset.”

The board is seeing nominations for volunteers to fill seat No. 2, which Blick held.

“We are looking for anyone with an interest in serving the fire district, with a background in business or firefighting to volunteer,” said Miodus.

Interested applications should submit a letter of interest to the Holley-Navarre Fire District, 8618 Esplanade St., Navarre FL, 32566 or call 939-5236.