Hamilton County reorganizing Emergency Services

Hubbs & Knecht promoted in latest changing of the guard

Hamilton County is reorganizing the management structure of its emergency services.

As part of the process, the County Commissioners have promoted two respected public safety leaders – Mike Hubbs and Chad Knecht – while laying the groundwork for a more streamlined and collaborative Emergency Operations Department.

Buckingham

Hubbs, Executive Director of Communications and Director of the Hamilton County 911 Center, will become the county’s new Director of Administration, replacing Lee Buckingham, who is retiring after more than three decades of public service.

At the same time, Knecht, currently the Executive Director of Emergency Management, will assume oversight of both EMA and the 911 Center under the umbrella of a coordinated Emergency Operations Department.

The County will name new directors for each department as the reorganization takes shape.

Altman

“This transition marks a new era for how we manage emergency services in Hamilton County,” County Commissioner Christine Altman said. “We are creating a more unified Emergency Operations Department, and we’re fortunate to have strong leaders in place to guide that transition. I look forward to working with both Mike and Chad as we move in this exciting new direction.”

Hubbs brings decades of experience to the role, having previously served as Director of the Marion County 911 Center in Indianapolis, a commander with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, an Indiana State Trooper, and a U.S. Secret Service agent.

Heirbrandt

“Mike’s leadership has always been centered on people,” County Commissioner Mark Heirbrandt said. “Emergency dispatch is a stressful environment to work in, but the way Mike supports his staff and the level of service they deliver is top-notch. He’s exactly the kind of leader we need in administration.”

Retiring Director of Administration and former County Prosecutor Buckingham’s last day will be Friday, May 30. Hubbs and Knecht will start in their new roles upon Buckingham’s retirement. Further announcements regarding the leadership of Emergency Management and the 911 Communications Center are expected in the coming weeks.