CAMBRIDGE, Ohio (AVC News) — Cambridge City Council honored Fire Chief Jeff Deeks Monday night for three decades of service to the City of Cambridge, recognizing a career marked by leadership, dedication and a commitment to public safety.
Council unanimously approved a resolution recognizing Deeks, who joined the Cambridge Fire Department as a probationary firefighter in 1996. He was promoted to engineer in 2003, captain in 2011, assistant chief in 2012 and became fire chief in 2013.
During the ceremony, council highlighted Deeks’ accomplishments, including earning the Ohio Fire Chief’s credential, completing associate and bachelor’s degrees in fire service administration, receiving two lifesaving medals and an exceptional service medal for his work during the 1998 floods.
Council also recognized Deeks for helping develop the city’s first EMS levy, ensuring continued emergency medical services for residents of Cambridge and Cambridge Township.
Accepting the recognition, Deeks thanked the firefighters and paramedics who serve alongside him, saying the honor belongs to them.
“It’s been truly an honor to serve the City of Cambridge for the past 30 years,” Deeks said. “The recognition should go to those sitting in the back who respond to these calls every day.”
He also thanked his family for supporting his career, saying he could not have accomplished it without them.
Mayor Tom Orr praised Deeks’ leadership and also updated council on several city projects, including ongoing road work, parking lot improvements and sidewalk construction. Orr said work on Edgeworth Avenue has been delayed while crews wait for specialized storm sewer components but remains targeted for completion later this year.
In other business, council approved the acceptance of a donated police drone, authorized the donation of an unused police cruiser to the City of Rittman, awarded bids for the Water Street sanitary sewer extension project and approved several budget transfers and appropriations.
Council also advanced a proposed Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) downtown to a third reading. Council members encouraged residents with questions about the proposal to attend the Aug. 10 meeting or contact council members before a final vote.
An ordinance renaming a portion of Wheeling Avenue as U.S. Bridge Way also advanced to a third reading.
Last Updated on July 28, 2026 by AVC News
