I. Council Action Requested.
Title
WHEREAS, Deputy Chief Kooistra was a beloved leader in the Windham Fire-Rescue Department for seven years, dedicated to our members and community; and
WHEREAS, Deputy Chief Kooistra served the department since February 2019, bringing to Windham his expertise as a paramedic, firefighter, and educator, and dedicating his time to ensuring compassionate and quality emergency medical care for our citizens, as well as fact-based, skill-proficient training and education for our members; and
WHEREAS, through more than 32 years of public safety service, he cared deeply for colleagues, families, and neighbors in Windham, Portland, Westbrook, Wells, and United Ambulance, and taught hundreds of EMS clinicians, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and many others in public safety and health care both locally and worldwide in trauma and operational K9 care; and
WHEREAS, Deputy Chief Kooistra was known for his compassionate and high-quality emergency medical care, his genuine concern for others, and his quick-witted humor, touching countless lives and leaving a legacy of dedication, service, and community spirit; and
WHEREAS, his profound impact on our community and his unwavering commitment to excellence, education, and public safety will be deeply missed by family, friends, and colleagues.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Windham Town Council hereby honors the memory of Deputy Chief John L. Kooistra, celebrating his remarkable life and mourning the profound loss to our community; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we extend our deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones and encourage all citizens to remember John's enduring spirit, his exceptional career in public service, and the countless ways he strengthened and cared for our community.
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II. Basis for Council Action.
Council approval of this item is required because;
a. Pursuant to Article II, Section 3(I) of the Charter, the Town Council shall "[e]xerc...
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