Tough economic times and a tight budget have caused Labette County Commissioners to reduce payroll by canceling the Office of Emergency Management which is headed by Jim Cook. In addition to his work in emergency management since 2005, Cook also has served as a coordinator for the commissioners. His last day of work will be Aug. 31, according to minutes of the budget meeting held last Friday.
Commissioners emphasized that eliminating the position was for budgetary purposes. A county employee will be appointed later to handle emergency duties, Chairman Brian Kinzie noted.
Kinzie also said Cook’s vehicle will be transferred to the sheriff’s department on Sept. 1.
In a statement prepared for Labette Avenue, Cook expressed great appreciation for the first responders in Labette County: 911 dispatching and communications; paid and volunteer fire departments; law enforcement departments; ambulance services; county health department and the road and bridge department. “All show a willingness and ability to help others during emergencies,” Cook said. “There also are some outstanding volunteers — Jonathan Tower of the local Red Cross is an example. I’ve been privileged to work with all of them.”
Cook did not indicate his plans for the future.
For other coverage of the county commission, see this week’s Labette Avenue.