Orange Beach police chief resigns post effective Dec. 4

John Mullen • November 22, 2019

Asst. Chief Steve Brown will be the interim chief.

(OBA®) – Orange Beach Police Chief Joe Fierro is resigning after serving the department since February of 2016. Fierro announced his resignation on the police department’s Facebook page on Nov. 20. Assistant Chief Steve Brown is expected to become the interim chief.

Dear Orange Beach Community,

I have resigned my position as Chief of Police effective December 4, 2019. It has been an honor and privilege to serve as your police chief. I can assure each of you that you have fine, committed officers and staff serving and protecting you every day. I leave with a heavy heart but know you will be well taken care of. My best to all of you and I hope to see you when I am out and about. Take care.

Sincerely,
Joe Fierro
Chief of Police

More than 76 people offered comments of support on the social media post.

Mayor Tony Kennon said it’s his policy not to comment on retirements or resignations but said it’s likely Asst. Chief Steve Brown will be the interim chief while the city ponders who’ll replace Fierro.

“We’ll probably move Steve Brown to interim and just take our time,” Kennon said. “We’ll probably interview him. Steve has really grown in his abilities and he’s really stepped up as assistant chief. I think he deserves an opportunity to show what he can do on an interim basis. If we can go from within and get somebody that the police feels comfortable with them and we can go that route then, by all means, we will.”

Brown has served with the police department since 1993 when he was a reserve and communications officer. He has worked as a fulltime police officer since 1995 and served as patrol officer, investigator and now as assistant chief. 

Share this article w/ Friends...

Bay Watch Boat Ramp
By OBA Staff July 25, 2025
Weeks Bay, Ala. — (OBA) — The Bay Watch Public Boat Ramp in Baldwin County, Alabama, is now open again after a period of closure for major parking improvements. The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) finished the upgrades this month, which are expected to help local anglers, boaters...
Traffic Lights - Stock Image
By OBA Staff July 25, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Drivers in Orange Beach can expect a new traffic signal at a busy crossroads soon. The intersection of Canal Road and Wharf Parkway East, close to Culver's restaurant, will see new traffic lights in the coming weeks. Officials believe this change will make the area safer for both drivers an
Partnership Focuses on Gulf Environment Protection
By OBA Staff July 25, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Auburn University and Orange Beach officials celebrated a major breakthrough Thursday with the start of construction on a new research station. The facility, backed by Auburn's engineering college, is expected to boost environmental studies along the Gulf Coast. Leaders from the university
Gulf Shores hurricane decals
By OBA Staff July 25, 2025
Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — The Gulf Shores Police Department released details on its Hurricane Decal program. Police Chief Dan Netemeyer explained the system for property owners. These decals are crucial for public safety and convenience. They provide residents with two significant benefits.
Foley students, families, and teachers come together for inaugural alumni meeting
By OBA Staff July 25, 2025
Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Foley Sister Cities has taken a big step forward with the launch of its first-ever Global Leaders Alumni Association. The group’s first meeting took place this week at Baumhower’s Victory Grill in Foley. Graduating program students, their families, dedicated teachers, chaperones...
Gulf of America Homeland Security
By OBA Staff July 24, 2025
Loxley, Ala. — (OBA) — In the past few weeks, several Baldwin County businesses and construction sites have experienced immigration enforcement by the Gulf of America Homeland Security Task Force. This week Federal agents carried out an immigration enforcement operation at the construction site for the new Loxley Eleme
BJ’s Wholesale Club Expands with Foley Store Plans
By OBA Staff July 24, 2025
Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Residents in Foley will soon have a new option for bulk shopping as BJ’s Wholesale Club plans to open its second Alabama location in the city. The project was recommended for approval by the Foley Planning Commission, marking a significant step forward for the retail development. The new store wil
Foley, Alabama's Building Inspectors
By OBA Staff July 24, 2025
Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Foley, Alabama, stands out for its strong focus on safe home building. The city ranks fourth in the nation for homes certified as fortified by Smart Home America. These certifications mean buildings can better handle hurricanes and other bad weather. City officials say this work keeps residents sa
Flora-Bama Ole River Grill
By OBA Staff July 23, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The Flora-Bama Ole River Grill has earned a spot among nominees in the USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards for the best local sports bar in 2025. This popular venue sits right on the Florida-Alabama line, making it a key hangout for folks in Florida and Alabama. It stands out with its m
Coastal Tailgate Cook-Off Challenge Returns to Orange Beach
By R. Ken Cooper July 23, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Orange Beach will come alive on Saturday, August 23, 2025, as the Coastal Tailgate Cook-Off Challenge returns to The Wharf, promising a feast for the senses along with plenty of spirited competition. Organized by the Coastal Alabama Business Chamber, this event uniquely blends the excitemen
Show More