The Columbia County Board of Commissioners opened its Dec. 2 meeting by recognizing the county’s Emergency Management Agency after the agency was named Emergency Management Agency of the Year by the Emergency Management Association of Georgia.

A commissioner praised CCEMA’s leadership during Hurricane Helene (September 2024) and the interdepartmental coordination that supported recovery efforts across the county. CCEMA staff—identified by the director—introduced members of the team and thanked county leadership for support.

The board presented congratulations and applause; staff emphasized the award reflects countywide teamwork and not just the agency alone. No formal action or funding was associated with the recognition at the meeting.