CAMBRIDGE, Ohio — Cambridge City Council recognized Fire Chief Jeff Deeks during Monday night’s meeting, honoring his 30 years of service to the city and his contributions to the community’s fire and emergency medical services.
Council members unanimously approved a resolution recognizing Deeks’ career, which began in 1996 when he joined the Cambridge Fire Department as a probationary firefighter. Over the years, he advanced through the ranks, serving as an engineer, captain and assistant chief before being appointed fire chief in 2013.
The resolution highlighted several career accomplishments, including earning the Ohio Fire Chief credential, completing associate and bachelor’s degrees in fire service administration, receiving two lifesaving medals and being awarded an exceptional service medal for his response during the 1998 floods.
Council also recognized Deeks for his role in helping establish Cambridge’s first Emergency Medical Services levy, which provides continued EMS funding for both the City of Cambridge and Cambridge Township.
While accepting the recognition, Deeks credited the firefighters and paramedics he has served alongside throughout his career.
“It has truly been an honor to serve the City of Cambridge for the past 30 years,” Deeks said. “The recognition really belongs to the men and women who respond to emergencies every day.”
He also thanked his family for their support throughout his career, saying their encouragement made his years of public service possible.
Mayor Tom Orr also provided updates on several city improvement projects, including road repairs, parking lot upgrades and sidewalk construction. He said work on Edgeworth Avenue has been delayed while the city waits for specialized storm sewer materials but remains on track for completion later this year.
In other business, council accepted the donation of a police drone, approved donating an unused police cruiser to the City of Rittman and awarded contracts for the Water Street sanitary sewer extension project. Members also approved several budget transfers and appropriations.
Council advanced a proposed Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) to a third reading and encouraged residents to attend the Aug. 10 meeting or contact council members before a final vote is taken.
An ordinance that would rename a portion of Wheeling Avenue as U.S. Bridge Way also advanced to a third reading.
