Outagamie County Will Review Emergency Response Procedures

Outagamie County Executive Tom Nelson is announcing a review of the county’s emergency response procedures.

The review comes after concerns that emergency warning sirens did not sound when a string of tornadoes hit the region earlier this month. The silence of the sirens raised alarms about Outagamie County’s emergency response.

Now county executive Tom Nelson says a thorough review will be done.

“I believe that a broader view of all aspects governing emergency response and management is the only way to be committed to public safety and serving their needs,” says Nelson. “And so today I am announcing plans for an outside independent review of Outagamie County policy and procedure in emergency response and management.”

Who will do the review has yet to be determined.

No one in the area was injured during the storms. Nelson says the tornadoes did $31 million in property damage and that some communities are still dealing with fallen trees and branches. The state has not declared a disaster.

“I personally asked the governor to send National Guard resources,” says Nelson. “The governor has not responded directly to that request. Fortunately, the communities here in Outagamie County have been tremendously resourceful.”

Some have called for the county’s emergency director to be disciplined or fired. Nelson says he won’t comment on personnel issues.