Retiring employees recognized by city
Ontario city officials said goodbye to two longtime staff members at Tuesday night's council meeting: Fire Chief Dave Carrier and Mohamed El-Amamy, the utilities general manager.
"Both held in the highest regard in their profession, and they've always thought community and city first," City Manager Chris Hughes said.
Hughes, the previous fire chief, said he worked with Carrier for 24 years. Carrier spent 36 years in fire service, 31 of them in Ontario.
Carrier joined the department in 1980. He was promoted to engineer in 1984, captain in 1988, battalion chief in 1993 and deputy fire chief in 2008.
Last year, Carrier was appointed to lead the city's 136 firefighters and $36 million operating budget.
"You served our city faithfully, and it's so appreciated," Councilwoman Sheila Mautz told Carrier.
Deputy Fire Chief Floyd Clark, who will succeed Carrier, said he still remembers his first encounter with Carrier.
Clark said his first assignment as a battalion chief was to be a strike-team leader in San Diego. His trainee that day was Carrier.
"He so quiet and he doesn't like the limelight. But he's been there for me," Clark said.
El-Amamy has worked with the city for 21 years. He assumed the role of utilities manager a couple of years ago when Ken Jeske retired.
"He had very, very big shoes to fill. Mohamed followed suit and kept the level of professionalism," Leon said. "You're a wonderful man, and we're going to miss you."
Leon said he remembers his first encounter with El-Amamy.
"He said, 'You can't remember my name, so call me Mr. Smith," which Leon said he has continued to do.
Leon said, "This guy is a consummate professional and the city has been very, very fortunate to have him."
Both employees also received certificates from the city.
San Bernardino County Supervisor Gary Ovitt presented Carrier and El-Amamy with resolutions for their service to the community.
"These two men committed their lives to make Ontario a great city," said Ovitt, who was also the city's former mayor, told those in attendance at Tuesday's meeting.
Ovitt said Greg Devereaux, former Ontario city manager and current San Bernardino County CEO, had hoped he could attend to thank Carrier and El-Amamy for their service.
"Thank you to all you have done to improve the quality of life," Ovitt told El-Amamy. "The lifeblood you gave this city is very appreciated."
About this blog
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| Liset Márquez has covered the city of Ontario for the Inland Valley Daily Bulletin since 2008. She started the OntarioNow blog in August 2008. To contact Liset, leave a comment on this blog or send an e-mail to Liset Marquez |
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