Claremore council appoints physician to EMS board, honors two firefighters

The Claremore City Council approved the appointment of Dr. Irene Moy to the Claremore Emergency Medical Services Board for a two-year term and used its meeting to recognize two members of the Fire Department for service and bravery.

City staff explained the EMS board meets quarterly with the hospital, ambulance service and other providers to review licensing and to serve as a formal complaint process for ambulance service in the city. The manager said Dr. Moy was selected in part because the city's current medical director is not based in Claremore and Dr. Moy works at Hillcrest Claremore.

Council and fire department leaders presented the Claremore Fire Department Officer of the Year award to Captain Brandon McClain, praising his leadership and instruction of younger crew members.

Lieutenant Corey Conner received the Claremore Fire Department Firefighter Cross for an October 29, 2024 rescue. Presenters described Conner's actions during a structure fire: "Lieutenant Corey Conner made entry into the structure, found the victim, and dragged the victim to safety outside of the residence," a presenter said, noting Conner entered an atmosphere that was "immediately dangerous to life or health." The council and city manager thanked the firefighters and their families and permitted a photo recognition on the council dais.

The manager also reminded the council that city hall offices will be closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year's Day and said the city is coordinating support for personnel who must work those shifts.

Next steps: the appointment will be recorded and Dr. Moy will serve a two-year term on the EMS board; no additional budget or personnel actions were recorded at the meeting.