WMVO Good Times Great Oldies
Knox County has a new leader overseeing emergency preparedness and disaster response efforts.
Amy Seward was officially sworn in as the new Director of the Knox County Emergency Management Agency during a ceremony held this week, with Knox County Common Pleas Court Judge Richard Wetzel administering the oath of office.
Seward takes over the agency after serving for several years in Knox County emergency management, where she played an important role in coordinating preparedness efforts, emergency planning, training exercises, and disaster response operations. County officials praised her dedication and experience, expressing confidence in her ability to lead the agency into the future.
The Emergency Management Agency serves as the county’s central coordinating body during emergencies, working closely with local fire departments, law enforcement agencies, emergency medical services, public health officials, school districts, and other government partners. The agency is responsible for emergency planning, disaster mitigation, response coordination, and recovery efforts following natural disasters and other emergencies.
County leaders said Seward’s familiarity with local emergency operations and strong working relationships with first responders throughout Knox County made her a natural choice to assume the leadership role.
Seward succeeds longtime Emergency Management Director James DeChant, who recently stepped down from the position. County officials thanked DeChant for his years of service and leadership while helping guide the county through numerous emergency situations and preparedness initiatives.
During the swearing-in ceremony, county leaders highlighted Seward’s commitment to public safety and her contributions to emergency management efforts over the years.
As director, Seward will oversee emergency preparedness planning, coordinate training and exercises, manage disaster response operations, and continue working with local, state, and federal partners to ensure Knox County remains prepared for emergencies.
The appointment comes as emergency management agencies across Ohio continue emphasizing severe weather preparedness, disaster planning, and community resilience following a series of significant weather events throughout the state in recent years.
