County to Hire New Emergency Management Director

County Councilmen George Bailey and Larry Hargett have both said they will recommend council proceed with hiring a new emergency management director during the upcoming July 18 regular meeting. 

Rumors — based on a now-retracted statement — claimed that the position would be tacked onto county Administrator Jason Ward's position or that the current person filling in, John Ekaitis, would assume the responsibilities under his title of fire coordinator. 

Either scenario did not sit well with some citizens, like those of Coosaw Creek — especially at the height of , which began June 6, and the lack of qualifications from those personnel. A representative of the community spoke during the July 5 regular meeting of council. 

Bailey said Thursday that he originally wanted to explore the option of not hiring a full-time emergency management director. However, he told Patch, he will now recommend a full-time hire. 

"After attending held last month, I fully realize now we need a full-time emergency management director," Bailey said.

"I just thought it was possible to combine the two — and, of course, everyone has the right to change their position."