Director to retire; deputies report response rates, vehicle work and training schedule

Director Crown announced at the Jan. 29 meeting that she will retire after 18 years serving the county and 28 years in public safety in South Carolina; her stated last day is Feb. 19. The announcement prompted brief thanks from commissioners and moved the meeting into operational reports.

Deputy Chief Carroll presented annual response statistics for 2025, listing calls and success/response rates for Rescue 1, Rescue 2, Oakway and other units and reported that Mountain Rest experienced membership issues earlier in the year but improved by year-end. Carroll also described vehicle updates: warranty work for Salem's new vehicle, an Oakway pickup awaiting lighting installation, and motor-pool staffing and turnaround challenges that can slow outfitting. Commissioners asked whether outsourcing electronics installation would be cost-effective; staff said budget constraints make outsourcing difficult.

Staff reported 205 volunteers met full incentive training and physical requirements for the year; the roster of active volunteers was described as roughly 298–350. Training items include a required CEMTCEP skills day for EMTs scheduled Feb. 2 with morning and evening sessions, and additional driver/operator and officer training scheduled later in the year. Commission members were encouraged to share the training schedule with chiefs and squads.