Dougherty County EMS director Sam Allen to retire after 31 years; assistant James Gibney named interim

Sam Allen, who has led Dougherty County EMS, told commissioners at the March 3 work session that he will retire later in March after 31 years and four months of service. "This is my last time being down here at the well," Allen said, reflecting on his career and thanking board members: "It has been an honor. It has been a pleasure to work with each board member here." He said the department has matured into a highly skilled operation and credited staff and interagency partners for supporting lifesaving work.

Allen asked the board to welcome James Gibney, the current assistant EMS director, who will serve as interim director. Gibney, who described a long background in public safety and service, said he is "walking into a very good situation that's already been set up for me and handed to me" and pledged to "squeeze every drop of value" from department resources while recruiting and retaining high-quality providers.

Commissioners offered congratulations and public thanks. County Administrator Derek King and County Attorney also acknowledged Allen’s service; Christopher Drake from Congressman Sanford D. Bishop Jr.'s office presented a letter and a certificate of special congressional recognition honoring Allen’s career.

The board approved the EMS equipment replacement purchase for two ZOLL X Series monitor/defibrillators at the same meeting; staff characterized that purchase as routine replacement of end-of-life equipment. Allen said the new monitors will help “aid in saving lives in Dougherty County.”