The White County Commission meeting held on July 3, 2025, focused heavily on emergency management and fire response issues within the county. The discussions highlighted the critical need for a full-time Emergency Management Agency (EMA) director, emphasizing the importance of having someone available to respond to emergencies at all times.

The meeting began with a review of recent fire incidents, including a significant fire that occurred shortly before the meeting. Participants noted that the first responders included members from the Doyle Volunteer Fire Department and the EMA director, underscoring the collaborative nature of emergency response in the county. However, there was some confusion regarding the order of arrival of various responders, which prompted further clarification.

Matt McGraw, the EMA director, addressed the commission, stressing the importance of collaboration among all emergency services, including city and county departments. He provided statistics on emergency calls, noting that there were 28 fire rescue calls, 72 sheriff calls, and 27 EMS calls on a single day, illustrating the high demand for emergency services in the area.

McGraw also pointed out the challenges faced by volunteer fire departments, including a decline in volunteerism and the increasing costs of equipment. He mentioned that many departments have received grants from the Tennessee State Fire Marshal's Office, which have been crucial for purchasing necessary gear and equipment.

The discussion turned to the alarming rise in fire fatalities, with five reported in the last year and a half, a statistic that raised concerns among the commissioners. McGraw emphasized the need for improved resources and support for emergency services to prevent further tragedies.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued collaboration among all emergency services and a commitment to addressing the challenges faced by the county's fire departments. The commission acknowledged the importance of having a dedicated EMA director who can respond effectively to emergencies, reinforcing the need for a full-time position to enhance public safety in White County.