The Montgomery County Commission appoints Michael Smith as Director of County Emergency Management.

 

Commissioners approved the resolution at the May 18, 2026, meeting. County Administrator Jonathan Booe says this position is mandated by the state and the county only has a brief window in which to fill it.

 

Smith is currently the District Fire Chief for Montgomery County and will continue to fill both roles for the near future. Commissioner Phil Clubine says the dual role is fine so long as Smith feels he can do both.

 

Rick Whitson, who announced his retirement as Emergency Management Director last week, also served in both positions at the same time until the County Commission split the job in 2024. At that, time, Smith took over as District Chief. Commissioners say they will discuss the situation in the coming weeks before making a more permanent decision.