Marco Island chiefs apologize to community for knowledge of early vaccine registration

After a husband was able to cut in line for a vaccination, two city chiefs apologized.

Marco Island Police Chief Tracy Frazzano and Fire Chief Christopher Byrne both shared apology statements with the community Thursday after the city manager’s investigation found them accountable for allowing the police chief’s husband to register for a vaccine before the public.

City Manager Mike McNees says it will be a big undertaking to fill the department positions for 30 days, as the City continues to discuss who will take over.

People on Marco Island had many different opinions when we spoke to them about the apologies from the chiefs.

“I’m 65 and older,” Ruth Anne Curley said. “I’ve got to wait my turn.”

“I have a mother and father-in-law that are 85 years old that are still waiting,” Jeff Crank said.

There was a known breach in the Eventbrite vaccination reservation system. Both chiefs knew Frazzano’s husband got an appointment before he was supposed to.

“I thought it was disgusting,” Curley said. “I mean, they are trying to get their relatives in there.”

In Frazzano’s apology letter she said, “I regret and acknowledge it would have been better to have not received the vaccine.”

Byrne wrote, “I will work tirelessly to earn back your trust.”

“They are sorry that they got caught,” Curley said. “If they didn’t get caught, they wouldn’t be sorry.”

Others were more forgiving of the fire and police chiefs. A man we spoke to said he believes they were helping their families and received too long of a suspension.

“I would accept their apology,” Crank said. “I am a forgiver and forgetter. That’s what the lord brought me up to be.”

The city manager confirmed suspensions for both Frazzano and Byrne will begin Monday, Feb. 8 and be in effect for 30 days. They will both go without pay and regular benefits as City employees during that time.

Full apologies from Frazzano and Byrne

Frazzano’s statement:

“I am sorry this occurred. A link was provided to my husband with the belief that it would go live at the same time for everyone. That was not the case. We thought the vaccine would have been wasted if he did not go. We regret this occurred and acknowledge that it would have been better to have not received the vaccine. My focus will be rebuilding the confidence of the city and its residents.”

Fire Chief Byrne released an apology letter to the Marco Island community. He said he is available to discuss the situation with any community members at 239-206-0318.

MORE: See fire chief’s full letter to community of Marco Island