After helping guide Barton County through the 2001 Hoisington tornado and the COVID-19 pandemic, longtime Barton County Emergency Management Director Amy Miller will retire retiring at the end of the year after 37 years with the county. Miller was recognized by the Barton County Commission Thursday morning. But, while sorry to see her leave, commissioners also met Sean Kelly, a county engineering tech and assistant emergency manager, who was promoted to fill the post. “Amy Miller was hired on Jan. 10 1986, and is currently the county second-longest working county employee,” said County Administrator Matt Patzner. She announced her retirement earlier this year and leaves the post as of Dec. 31. Miller couldn’t be at the meeting, but Patzner read the letter of appreciation that they will present to her, along with a commemorative clock. “Few employees today have reached 37 years of service, fewer employees have reached 37 years while dealing with natural and man-made disasters, as well as insurance, workers compensation and such matters,” he read. “Having worked in various departments in the county, and with a background in journalism, you were a natural selection for a job that you understand, developing plans and response to the disasters we face on a daily basis,” he continued. “You were tasked with answering our ‘what ifs’ and you never failed in providing obtainable solutions that kept our citizens, our infrastructure safe and operational. “Focus, prevention, preparedness, response, recovery and mitigation are words we associated with your position,” Patzner read. “Educated, measured, well-intentioned, responsible and collaborative are words we associated with you. The hours spent in tabletop exercises paled in comparison to response to the Hoisington tornado, the global pandemic and other disasters over the last 37 years,” he noted. “Through it all he remained committed to your mission. For what you have brought to the table and what you have left for your legacy, you are appreciated.”
Source: Great Bend Tribune
