Public Information Officer

Spoke about emergency communication, wildfire impacts on property taxes, and regional environmental health entities.

Sheriff Thomas explained that his office is severely understaffed and cannot afford to pull personnel away from active emergency response to act as a full-time public information officer.

Fire Chief Lake stated that fire department personnel are fully committed to firefighting and evacuations during emergencies and cannot spare staff for dedicated public information duties.

County Attorney Brumley outlined the legal requirements of House Bill 33 regarding disaster and active shooter PIO mandates for counties and law enforcement.

Advocated for proactive budget planning and committee study regarding PIO needs ahead of upcoming elections.