Rains sworn in as new WC Emergency Management Director

Whitley County officially has a new full-time emergency management director.

Following the retirement of former Whitley County Emergency Management Director Danny Moses at the end of July, the position has been filled in an interim role as a successor was sought. During that time, Felicia Fore, the county’s assistant 911 director, and T.J. Centers, an animal control officer for the county, had been working jointly to see that the position’s duties were met.

As of Dec. 15, however, Jerry Rains has taken over the role permanently.

Rains has a long background in emergency services, working as part of the Williamsburg Rescue Squad for many years and most-recently serving as a regional manager for the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management, which he retired from earlier this year.

Rains was formally sworn in as the county’s next emergency management director during the 

Whitley Fiscal Court’s regular monthly meeting last Tuesday.

According to Whitley County Judge-Executive Pat White, Jr., Rains was the right fit for the job.

“He served this region for a long time…and he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience and we’re glad to have him,” said White. “I think he’s going to do well for us.”

Rains was hired following a full interview process that included meeting with a panel consisting of White, one county magistrate a several of the county’s first responders. 

In other fiscal court business:

– A closed executive session was held to discuss the acquisition of property. White said that information regarding that property could not be provided until it has been finalized.