By Sumner Harrell
GADSDEN, Ala. (WBMA) — The Gadsden-Etowah County EMA (GCEMA) Board voted unanimously to move management of the EMA from the City of Gadsden to the Etowah County Commission
The approved motion was made by GECEMA Board member and Rainbow City Mayor Joe Taylor and seconded by Gadsden Mayor Craig Ford.
Each year, the City of Gadsden spends $1.2 million from our budget on the EMA, which covers all of Etowah County,” said Gadsden Mayor Craig Ford. “Some of that is offset by funding from other municipalities in the county. But unfortunately, some don’t contribute at all, and Gadsden is paying more than our fair share for services that benefit everyone. It’s time for us to do what’s best with Gadsden taxpayers’ money.”
The city said it will still operate the current EMA under the leadership of Director Derek Mummert until August 1.
Ford said the city will be forming the Gadsden Emergency Response Team, which will continue to develop, coordinate, and administer an effective, comprehensive all-hazards emergency management program for Gadsden.
“My job as mayor is to take care of the citizens of Gadsden, and that’s why we’re forming the new response team known as GERT. Gadsden citizens are my top priority, and we’ll always help neighboring cities in time of need,” Ford said. “This move will save the citizens of Gadsden $500,000 while not reducing any of the services we’ve been receiving.”