A push for a full-time Emergency Management Agency (EMA) director took center stage during the White County Commission meeting on July 3, 2025. Commissioners expressed strong support for the position, emphasizing its potential to enhance emergency response and secure missed grant opportunities.

One commissioner highlighted the importance of having a dedicated EMA director, stating, "This is a position that will pay for itself and then some." The discussion revealed concerns about the county's current emergency management capabilities, with commissioners noting that a full-time director could significantly improve response times during emergencies.

Despite the enthusiasm, there were questions about the budget implications of adding this position. Some commissioners worried that the push for a full-time EMA director could jeopardize the overall budget, with one member stating, "I would not sacrifice the entire budget over that position." However, a poll indicated that the majority of commissioners supported the idea, albeit with some conditions regarding the hiring process.

The conversation also touched on budget allocations for emergency services, including funding for ambulances. Commissioners discussed the possibility of reallocating funds to accommodate the EMA position without increasing the tax rate, aiming to maintain the current budgetary framework.

As the meeting concluded, the call for a full-time EMA director underscored a growing recognition of the need for enhanced emergency management in White County. The commission is expected to continue deliberating on this critical issue, weighing the benefits against budgetary constraints in the coming weeks.