(Cushing, Okla.) Cushing Fire Chief Brent Kerr announced he has decided to retire. “It was a tough decision – a lot of prayer was involved,” Kerr said. “But I’m 46 years old now and I’ve spent half my life at the fire department – it’s time.”
A 1983 graduate of Olive High School, Kerr spent only a brief time in the private sector before beginning his career at Cushing Fire Department Feb. 11, 1989. Kerr served as Deputy Fire Chief for 1 1/2 years before becoming Chief in May of 2006. During his time at Cushing Fire Department, Kerr said he has seen “a ton of changes.” Some of the most significant changes he said include better equipment, the level of training, community relations and of course the recent offering of paramedic level services.
The question in the minds of people hearing of Kerr’s retirement is “Why now? Why not wait until the new safety center is finished?”
“Is there ever a good time? I will tell you that it would be a lot easier to leave if there weren’t so many positive things going on right now. Our relationship with the community, the police department and between management and the union are all very strong right now. But there comes a time in your career when you know it’s time,” Kerr said. “You may not even know why at the time, but you just know.”
He announced his decision last Thursday, much to the dismay of City Manager Steve Spears as well as the Fire Department’s staff. “Everyone seemed to have the same expression,” Kerr said. “I think a look of surprise or shock would best describe it.”
Kerr said his wish for the department is for continued growth and “the best that they can have.”
“You know the guys here can make or break the person who sits in my seat,” he continued. “That’s what I will miss most about this job – the guys – and I include Carol when I say ‘the guys’. And of course, working with the community – they’ve all been great.”
As for what the future holds for Kerr, he said a career change is definitely on the horizon. “You know, when opportunity knocks you have to pay attention.”
Kerr’s last day at the department will be Friday, March 9th. A reception will be held at 1 p.m. for those who want to stop by.
**
