ONEONTA, N.Y. (WKTV) - A retiring Oneonta Fire Chief has been honored with a recently adopted legislative resolution.

According to State Senator James Seward, Senate resolution 3487 was adopted on January 20, 2010. The resolution was also sponsored and adopted in the New York State Assembly on January 12, 2010.

"Bob Barnes has raised the bar for emergency service personnel," said Senator Seward. "His dedication and hard work has saved countless lives, prevented numerous tragedies and created a safer community."

Barnes retired on December 25, 2009 following a career in public safety spanning 36 years, including 18 as City of Oneonta Fire Chief.

"I am proud to have worked with Bob on a number of occasions and have always marveled at his professionalism no matter the situation. He is well deserving of this special honor," Seward concluded.