RESOLUTION NO. 241103

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Sponsor:  Councilperson Kevin O’Neill

RESOLUTION - Honoring Dr. Richard Gist on his retirement after 26 years and 2 months of dedicated service to the Kansas City Fire Department and the residents of the City of Kansas City.

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WHEREAS, Dr. Gist joined the executive staff on a ten-month sabbatical leave from his academic appointment in 1998 and remained as Deputy Director and Principal Assistant to the Fire Chief; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Gist lead efforts in securing funds for critical department and community needs by securing tens of millions of dollars in grants revenue; and

WHEREAS, for many years Dr. Gist lead national efforts in occupational health and safety, behavioral health, and community outreach that now support firefighters and communities everywhere; and

WHEREAS, during his tenure, Dr. Gist developed guidance and support of prevention efforts that have helped to dramatically reduce fire deaths and injuries, particularly in children and seniors; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Gist spearheaded the Citizen Assist Project, which received the International Award for Fire Service Excellence and set a foundation for today’s community medical outreach efforts; and

WHEREAS, December 31, 2024, marks the last day of Dr. Gist’s career with the Kansas City, Missouri, Fire Department; NOW, THEREFORE,

BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF KANSAS CITY:

That the Mayor and Council hereby extend their sincere appreciation to Dr. Richard Gist for more than 26 years and 2 months of dedicated and distinguished service to the City of Kansas City, Missouri, and to the residents of Kansas City; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution be spread upon the Minutes of the Council in testimony thereof and that copy hereof be presented to Dr. Richard Gist in token of the Mayor and Council's respect and high regard, and their best wishes for the long and happy retirement which he so richly deserves.

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