Brevard County Manager Frank Abbate Announces Retirement After 36 Years in Public Service

retirement will take effect on May 15

BREVARD COUNTY • VIERA, FLORIDA – Brevard County Manager Frank Abbate has officially announced his retirement, ending a distinguished 36-year career in county government. His retirement will take effect on May 15, according to a letter submitted to the County Commission on Friday.

His departure will set in motion a search for his successor, with the commission expected to discuss whether to conduct a nationwide search. In the meantime, he recommended that Assistant County Manager Jim Liesenfelt serve as interim county manager.

Abbate’s career with Brevard County began in 1989 when he was admitted to the Florida Bar and appointed as the Human Resources Director, a position he held for 26 years.

In June 2015, he transitioned to Assistant County Manager for Public Safety and Support Services.

Following the resignation of then-County Manager Stockton Whitten in April 2017, Abbate served as Interim County Manager before being officially appointed by a unanimous 5-0 vote from the Brevard County Commission in July 2017.

In his retirement letter, Abbate expressed his gratitude for the support he has received from county staff and commissioners throughout his tenure. He highlighted his pride in the leadership team he helped build and his confidence in their ability to continue serving the community effectively.

Citing a desire to spend more time with family and pursue personal goals, Abbate said the decision was not easy but felt it was the right time to step away. Despite his impending departure, he assured that he and his staff would continue working on the county’s proposed budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year before his exit.

Reactions from County Officials
County officials reacted to the announcement with appreciation for Abbate’s service and acknowledgment of the challenges in selecting his replacement.

District 5 County Commissioner Thad Altman commended Abbate’s leadership, calling him a “great guy and a very talented administrator” who has handled a demanding role with dedication.

District 1 Commissioner Katie Delaney voiced her support for a broad search to bring in fresh ideas and encourage more citizen engagement in the selection process.

As the search for Abbate’s successor begins, Liesenfelt is expected to be the leading candidate for the interim county manager role. Liesenfelt, who has been assistant county manager since 2017, previously served for two decades as director of Space Coast Area Transit.

Beyond his administrative duties, Abbate has contributed to academia as an instructor for both Webster University and the University of Central Florida, teaching graduate courses in Public Administration and Human Resources Development.

Residing in Satellite Beach with his wife, Rita, Abbate is a proud father of three and grandfather of four.

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