Lunchtime with the Chamber

Mike Johnson
ECB Publishing Inc.

The Chamber of Commerce holds its luncheons on the first Tuesday of every month at noon, where they have speakers to go over the significant concerns and programs of Jefferson County. The Chamber's luncheon on June 1, was to ensure the community how Jefferson County Sheriff Office (JCSO) and G-FAST have been preparing for natural disasters with the start of hurricane season.
During the luncheon JCSO Sheriff Mac McNeill and Owner/Operator Richard Connell of G-FAST, explained more about the rescue efforts in play for Jefferson County. Sheriff McNeill explains that the department has made changes to ensure that they are doing everything in their power to make rescue relief easier for the community. Each deputy has a battery or gas-powered chainsaw in their vehicle to help clear roadways quicker. With the roadways cleared from trees and fallen debris, the power companies can get out the same day or the next day after rough storms to restore power to most businesses and residents. However, with these new duties, there comes dangers as well. The only trees JCSO will not remove are ones that touch or are entangled with power lines. JCSO Sheriff McNeill also purchased a M-Rap, a vehicle design for high wind and water to remove trapped civilians.
With the beginning of hurricane season, Connell from G-FAST is prepared for the worst of the worst. G-FAST was put together to relieve all types of disasters. Connell explains all the uses of G-FAST at the luncheon, including boats, helicopters, front loaders and over 100 generators. G-FAST has partnered with two locations in the city of Monticello, allowing him to hook generators up with their businesses. Hence, at a moment's notice, they can have the power within five minutes. These businesses would help with the supply of food, gas and diesel.
Looking to the future, Connell is hoping to partner with Piggly Wiggly and Winn-Dixie to install generator systems that will save food during a natural disaster or major power outage. With multiple boats for water rescues, a helicopter for search and rescue, over 100 generators and mobile tankers caring fuel for first responders, G-FAST has made a positive change in Jefferson's community. Only having three full-time staff members and 20 part-time, G-FAST can be spread a little thin, while helping other counties in their needs. Richard is always asking for help and volunteers from the surrounding areas to make sandwiches for the unprepared people, clean up, remove fallen debris and many other tasks.
With the help of JCSO, G-FAST, Tom Kisamore (Road Superintendent) and Parrish Barwick (County Coordinator), Jefferson County residents do not have much to worry about with natural disasters.