Allegany County appoints Scott D. Golden as director of emergency management

Scott D. Golden, a colonel in the New York Army National Guard, was appointed director of emergency management by the Allegany County Board of Legislators on June 11, 2025. The board approved Resolution Intro. 24025 on a voice vote after a motion by Legislator Havey and a second by Legislator Hanchett.

The appointment formalizes Golden's new county role after the board earlier invited him to the front of the chamber for recognition. Golden described his background and priorities in brief remarks to the board: "I have definitely have a vested interest. I look forward to bringing my knowledge, skills, and abilities to help out, your constituents and, you know, all of our, you know, fellow mankind in our county. See what we can do to to make things better and, you know, obviously, preparedness, mitigation, then unfortunately when there's a disaster response and response and the recovery, you know, the all the all the phases," he said.

Why it matters: The director of emergency management coordinates county preparedness, response and recovery for hazards that affect Allegany County residents. The board took the formal action during its regular meeting after a prior ceremonial recognition of Golden's military service.

Key facts from the meeting: Golden was introduced to the board before the formal appointment. According to remarks recorded at the meeting, he lives in Friendship, New York; earned a Bachelor of Science from Houghton University and a master's degree in Emergency Management from American Military University; and enlisted in 1996 as a medic. The meeting record lists his specialties as medical operations, plans, intelligence and security, and notes service on missions including Noble Eagle and Operation Enduring Freedom. The comments also listed several awards mentioned by the introducer, including a New York State Conspicuous Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal and other recognitions.

Discussion versus decision: The board's action was a formal appointment (Resolution Intro. 24025) approved by voice vote. Golden's on-record remarks described priorities and did not alter the board's formal action. No substitute motions or recorded roll-call opposition to the appointment appear in the meeting record.

What to watch next: The resolution text and any implementing paperwork may specify start date, reporting lines, or transition details; those items were not specified in the public remarks at the meeting.