It’s been a pleasure working with Cottage Grove for many years, from the police to EMS.”

Kent Griffith

I know you’re a man that doesn’t expect a lot of recognition, but you really deserve it as a resident here.”

Cottage Grove Public Safety Director Pete Koerner

The Cottage Grove City Council on Nov. 15 recognized Kent Griffith and his career of over 34 years of service, as he retires from his position as Regions Hospital’s EMS Clinical Supervisor. A presentation was made by Cottage Grove Public Safety Director Pete Koerner outlining the impact Griffith has had in the community, noting a long-standing relationship with Public Safety.

“We just wanted to take a moment to recognize Kent Griffith retiring from Regions,” said Koerner. “Kent has been instrumental here, starting back in 1989 with Regions Hospital.”

Citing Griffith’s long history of contributions to the city, he also noted the years that he spent on the Public Service Commission.

“He is a Cottage Grove resident with over 34 years of service to the Cottage Grove community,” Koerner continued. “Kent is a registered nurse and national registered paramedic, served as the EMS Clinical Supervisor for Regions Hospital, and as you are aware, they provide the medical direction for the City of Cottage Grove. Kent has served as a Clinical Supervisor for Cottage Grove and many other communities under Regions Hospital since 1989.

“In his role, Kent has been essential to training, development, and improving EMS care provided by Cottage Grove paramedics and EMTs,” said Koerner. “In addition to his role at Regions Hospital, Kent has also served as a part-time paramedic with us at the fire department. In the last couple of years, he really supported us in our Covid-19 response and he worked a lot with our fire department with the vaccine team. I know you’re a man that doesn’t expect a lot of recognition, but you really deserve it as a resident here.”

Mayor Myron Bailey presented Griffith with a plaque from the city, which read, “In recognition of over 34 years of dedicated service to the citizens of Cottage Grove and partnerships between Regions EMS and Cottage Grove Public Safety. Your commitment to Cottage Grove EMS is greatly valued and appreciated.”

Bailey recalled seeing Griffith in first responder situations many times.

“It isn’t that you had to do that,” said Bailey. “You did it because this is your community and because of your love for the community.”

After a round of applause from those in attendance, Griffith took a moment to say a few words in response to the recognition from the city.

Griffith said, “Thank you very much for the wonderful award. I don’t feel like I deserve this at all, but I do thank you. It’s been a pleasure working with Cottage Grove for many years, from the police to EMS.” He continued, “It’s a great department to work for. Very dedicated people. Very talented people. It’s been my pleasure working over the years with everyone, including the mayor and council here. So, thank you.”