SANDPOINT — Fire Chief Gavin Gilcrease handed a shiny golden wrapped box with a red bow to Fire Captain Kevin Amorebieta to celebrate his 25 years of service at Wednesday’s City Council meeting.

Amorebieta has been serving the Sandpoint community as a firefighter since 2000 with Selkirk Fire and now Sandpoint Fire. Gilcrease said Amorebieta’s dedication and unwavering work ethic have left a lasting impact not only on the department, but on the safety of the city. 

“Over the past two and a half decades you have answered the call day or night and in every season under all conditions,” Gilcrease said. “Your years of service stand as a powerful example of what it means to be a public servant.” 

Inside the box was a brand-new Citizen watch with the thin red line representing the fire department, continuing Gilcrease’s new tradition of honoring those who have given over 25 years to the region. Amorebieta thanked Gilcrease for the kind words and gift. 

“Your legacy will continue to inspire current and future members of our department,” Gilcrease said to Amorebieta. “We are proud to serve alongside you and sincerely thank you for your extraordinary contributions, with heartfelt gratitude.”