Harnett County advances creation of First Responders Advisory Committee; membership and officer rules debated

Mister Appel, county staff, presented a draft of bylaws for a proposed Harnett County First Responders Advisory Committee at the July 1 work session.

Appel said the draft—s stated purpose is to discuss and provide solutions in law enforcement, fire, emergency medical services and emergency management; identify critical funding needs and resources; develop regional guidance, training and technical strategies; promote public outreach and awareness; and enhance collaboration and preparedness for events and disasters.

The draft membership list proposed one representative each from: Harnett County Emergency Services; Harnett County Sheriff—s Office; Harnett County 9-1-1 communications; a municipal police department; the Harnett County Fire Chiefs Association; the county manager—s office; and one citizen representative from each of the county—s five voting districts. The draft also included two ex officio, nonvoting seats for county commissioners. Appel said membership terms would be three years, with a limit of two consecutive full terms and a required one-year break before a member could be reappointed.

During discussion commissioners asked about expanding fire chief representation to east/west or north/south seats, adding a second municipal police representative, and whether the district citizen seats would provide adequate geographic coverage. Commissioners suggested options including two citizen members per district to improve participation and geographic balance; Appel said he could adjust membership numbers and bring a revised draft back.

Commissioners also proposed adding a representative from the District Attorney—s office. Appel said the manager—s office seat could be made ex officio (nonvoting) to keep the total number of voting members odd if desired.

Several commissioners urged that executive officer roles (chair, vice chair) be held by citizen members rather than county employees so that the committee remains citizen-led. Appel said he originally listed the chair to be appointed by the commissioners but could change the selection process so the committee selects its own chair.

Appel said he would make the suggested corrections and return the draft for further discussion; commissioners asked staff to bring the updated bylaws back with the possibility of a vote at the next meeting so the committee can be activated.