Submitted by Thurston County Medic One and Emergency Management
Steve Romines, longtime Medic One and Emergency Management Director for Thurston County, has announced his retirement. Romines has been dealing with illness in recent months and has decided to resign earlier than he had been planning. “My current expected retirement date is May 31, 2016. This was a difficult decision with many restless nights and I wish my situation had resolved more affirmatively.”
“While I assume that I will have a complete recovery, I have no guarantee that my condition will not reoccur. I can’t in good conscience continue to rely on staff supporting my absences, nor do less than what I would expect of myself. Finally, and most important to me, I wish to spend more time with my wife and family.”
Romines says he could not ask for a better working environment and has thanks for the Thurston County Commissioners and co-workers for the opportunity to pursue his passion for the last 24 years as the Director of Thurston County Medic One and as Emergency Management Director.
Thurston County Commission chair Sandra Romero has high praise for Romines. “Steve has continually provided exemplary service to the residents of Thurston County including guiding our response to emergencies and natural disasters such as flooding. His leadership will be missed and we very much appreciate his dedication over the past decades.”
Romines says he is proud of the work of everyone in Medic One and Emergency Management and noted several milestones in service to the community-
- Paramedic/Advanced Life Support unit response time that is the fastest and most reliable it has ever been; 7 minute average county-wide and 94% achievement of overall countywide response time with seven strategically placed paramedic units.
- Shockable rhythm cardiac arrest survival rate of 50% which is one of the best in the nation.
- Medic One has lived within voter-approved financing authorizations and has not asked for a lid lift/levy restoration in the last 17 years.
- Free Citizen CPR classes countywide. Trauma prevention programs providing child bicycle helmets and automobile child seat fitting.
Commissioner Cathy Wolfe says, “We have always had faith in the information Steve provided to us and his level of expertise. He has always been level-headed in emergency situations and his calm demeanor and thoroughness will be missed. He has been a great asset to Thurston County.”
“I would like to express my gratefulness and appreciation to Steve for his successful work performance and attitude in Emergency Management & Services for Thurston County.” says Commissioner Bud Blake. “Steve is a consummate professional and a life-long loyal friend. We have all benefited from his wit and wisdom and wish him the best.”
Romines says he will work with the County Commissioners and County administration over the next several months to set up a succession plan for his replacement.