Title
To Recognize Fire Chief Kevin O’Connor in Honor of his 31 years of Distinguished Service with the Columbus Division of Fire
Body
WHEREAS, in March of 1989, Chief Kevin O’Connor began his career with the Columbus Division of Fire with an assignment to Ladder 1; and
WHEREAS, a native of Columbus, Chief O’Connor is a graduate of Brookhaven High School, he earned his bachelor’s degree from The Ohio State University in secondary math education and a master’s in business administration from Franklin University; and
WHEREAS, As Chief O’Connor achieved promotions through the ranks of lieutenant, captain, battalion chief, and deputy chief, Division leadership recognized his prowess for the training and development of firefighters and emergency medical technicians. Following a promotion to Assistant Chief has was placed in the Training Bureau; and
WHEREAS, under his guidance, the Columbus Division of Fire training facility has been nationally recognized as a model of excellence. Starting in 2007, The Columbus Division of Fire has been granted international accreditation by the Committee on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI); and
WHEREAS, Kevin O’Connor was appointed Chief of the Columbus Division of Fire on May 21, 2015 by Mayor Michael B. Coleman and has served in this capacity for 5 years; and
WHEREAS, As Chief, Kevin O’Connor dedicated himself to ensuring Columbus residents receive a high level of service and care. He has championed such programs as the Rapid Response Emergency Addiction Crisis Team (RREACT), the Mobile Stroke Treatment Unit; and
WHEREAS, Chief O’Connor opened Fire Station 2, Fire Station 3, and Fire Station 35, in addition to breaking ground on Fire Station 16, during his time as Chief. Each of these Stations was built with attention to firefighter safety and environmental impact; and
WHEREAS, This Council is thankful for the service of Chief Kevin O’Connor, his wife, Karen, and their two children to the residents of the City of Columbus; now, therefore
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
That this Council does hereby express its appreciation for the outstanding contributions that have been made by Chief Kevin O’Connor during his 31 years of public service to the City of Columbus.