By Mike Steely
Senior Writer
steelym@knoxfocus.com
The Knox County Fire and Technical Rescue Committee discussed creating a long-term plan and elected officers last Wednesday.
Brad Anders, executive director of the Knox County Emergency Communications District, was chosen as chairman. Brian Townsend, chief of Knox County Rescue, was chosen as vice chairman, and Colin Ickes of the Knoxville-Knox County Emergency Management Agency was elected as finance committee chair.
Anders and Dwight Van de Vate, Knox County Chief Operating Officer, discussed the county budget, with Van de Vate saying that funding applications are changing. He said Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs will present his yearly budget proposal on May 11 at 11 a.m. at Covenant Health Park.
The committee discussed the ongoing and future drought and the increasing carbon monoxide deaths in the nation. Also mentioned was the push for “construction-type” burnings when land is being cleared for use.
Anders said that the committee needs to look at 1-, 2- and 5-year plans to prepare for the population growth. At-Large Commissioner Larsen Jay sat in on the meeting and said the jurisdictions need to work together in planning.
The committee may start the effort when it meets in June.
Anders also said that the 911 Call Center’s renovation is almost complete, and the staff may be moving back to the Baxter Street headquarters soon.
