HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-10-10 RecognitionRECOGNIZING CHIEF THOMAS HIGGINS AS 2018 FIRE CHIEF OF THE YEAR
WHEREAS, Chief Higgins has served as the Bangor Fire Chief for over four years. Prior to his tenure
as Fire Chief, Chief Higgins served for over 20 years in a variety of positions in the
Bangor Fire Department; and
WHEREAS, In his last four years as Chief of the Bangor Fire Department, Chief Higgins has
instituted a number of substantial changes that have resulted in superior service and
value for the Citizens of Bangor; and
WHEREAS, These changes include life safety inspections of thousands of rental units throughout the
city; advocacy for safety equipment and training; acquisition of upgraded engines, ladder
trucks, ambulances, and safety equipment, safety improvements to the regional training
facility at Bangor International Airport; and obtaining a SAFER grant for five-year funding
of four firefighter/EMT positions; and
WHEREAS, During the October 2017 windstorm that left parts of the city without power for more than
a week, Chief Higgins worked with Emera, the Red Cross, and City staff to identify the
scope of the problem, effectively advocate for neighborhoods in need, set up temporary
shelters for those with prolonged power outages, and proactive�y work to identify
strategies to mitigate the impact of the outages; and
WHEREAS, As a result, Chief Higgins was asked to testify on behalf of the City and Fire Department
on the response of Emera during the storm, resulting in better emergency protocols and
communications strategy for the communities throughout the state when dealing with
regulated utilities; and
WHEREAS, Chief Higgins is a true asset to the City of Bangor and the community he serves. He puts
the safety and wellbeing of the people first and is constantly looking to improve
operations to better benefit them. He has served his community and his profession with
the highest level of integrity and professionalism; and
WHEREAS, For his work, Chief Higgins has been recognized by the Maine Fire Chiefs' Association,
a leading advocacy group for Fire Services in Maine, as the 2018 Fire Chief of the Year.
NOW, THEREFORE, 1, Benjamin A. Sprague, Mayor of the City of Bangor, on behalf of the City
Council and the citizens of Bangor, do hereby recognize Chief Thomas Higgins for his achievements and
contributions to our Community. , #,±'11"(4'4.,.1,-' -
Given this the 101h day of October, 2018.
Benjamin Afbpragu�eMayor