On Thursday January 5, 2023, at a City Monthly Employee Safety Meeting, City Manager Chris Melville presented Fire Chief Jeffrey Knudtson with his 30 Year Service Award to the applause of all those employees in attendance.

Jeff began serving as the West Wendover Fire Chief on December 15, 1992.   A position he has held since.

City Manager Melville commented, “Chief Knudtson, known by most as simply Jeff or Chief, has worked steadfastly since his appointment in 1992 ensuring that the City’s Fire Department was not just effective but efficient and community oriented.   Through his leadership, he has ensured that when trouble occurs whether in regards to a medical response or related to a fire or natural disaster our Fire Department acts quickly and decisively to ensure the safety and life of the residents of the community as well as its visitors and the protection of any property so affected.”   City Manager Melville continued, “Jeff holds the title as the longest serving City Employee to date and it not only has been a sincere pleasure to work with him through all of these years but also learn from him.  When it comes down to fire business, have no doubt, Jeff knows it.   But he never leads on much and with his jovial sense of humor you will find yourself enjoying a lot of smiles and good laughter.  I am very fortunate to be in a position today of giving him the accolades he is due and honoring his service.  He is a professional not only to look up to, but to look to for guidance and knowledge.”

The service plaque for Chief Knudtson was a specialty item and includes a miniature red fire axe engraved with the Fire Department logo along with the City Seal and the following wording:

This Award is in Recognition of 30 Years of Honorable Service, Faithful Dedication, Continual Self-Sacrifice & Exemplary Leadership to the City of West Wendover & The West Wendover Fire Department.  Fire Chief Jeffrey Knudtson, 1992-2022.

In addition to his service plaque, Chief Knudtson also received a service pin designed with the City Seal.  The pin reflects his 30 years of service with 6 stars (1 for every 5 years) along with a $100 gift card.

Thank you, Chief Knudtson, for your continued service and dedication to our community. 

Pictured from left Fire Chief Jeff Knudtson and City Manager Chris Melville.