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Board hears EMA funding shortfall concerns and raises regional dispatch prospects
Summary
The EMA committee reported grant-funded equipment purchases and a 4% salary increase for its director but warned county EMA funds may run out in 6–9 months. Supervisors discussed seeking contributions from cities and exploring regional dispatch or shared services over the next 3–5 years.
At the June 1 meeting the board received committee reports that highlighted concerns about Emergency Management Agency (EMA) funding and a possible need to pursue regional solutions. Committee members reported an EMA purchase over $10,000 supported by a $10,000 community foundation grant and that the commission approved a 4% pay increase for EMA director Jeff.
Committee reporting indicated the EMA job description and staffing arrangements remain under review, and members said local funding may not sustain current EMA operations beyond six to nine months without additional city contributions or alternate revenue. The committee asked that staff reach out to the eight cities in the county to determine whether they will contribute in the coming fiscal year.
Supervisors also discussed longer-term structural options, including shared dispatch centers among two to three counties or participating in a state dispatch system, and characterized such moves as multi-year considerations that would require planning and legal review. No formal action was taken; the board encouraged further study and coordination with neighboring counties and the county attorney as needed.
