WINTON – Hertford County is in good hands when Mother Nature wreaks havoc.

That’s the word from the Hertford County Board of Commissioners, who expressed their appreciation for the work of the Hertford County Emergency Management Office and other personnel.

During their regular meeting the board adopted a resolution supporting “Firefighters Week” and took the opportunity to talk about the work of those who give their all in times of emergency.

Commission Chairman Johnnie R. Farmer said he wanted to thank Emergency Management Coordinator Chris Smith and others who worked diligently during Hurricane Irene.

“Mrs. (Loria) Williams, you have done a lot for Hertford County, but one of the best things you did was hire Chris Smith as Emergency Management Coordinator,” Farmer said. “He did an outstanding job with the hurricane and with many other things.”

Commissioner Curtis Freeman added to the conversation.

“We did a very good job in the storm,” Freeman said. “I have received numerous comments about how prepared the county was and how well some of our staff members did.”

Commissioner Howard J. Hunter III said Smith did an outstanding job of communicating with the board, other agencies and the public during the storm.

Freeman added,” We have the kind of staff in place now where we can worry about the storm and not how well prepared we are for the storm. I can’t say enough about what a great job the staff members did.”

Commissioners also credited Hertford County Sheriff Juan Vaughan and his department as well as Social Services Director Adonica Hampton and her agency for their work during the storm. Williams and Assistant County Manager John P. Rankins were also commended for their efforts.

“Thank you and I will pass the information along,” Williams said.

In other business, the board:

• approved a budget amendment for the 2012 budget;
• agreed to a contract with Willo Products Company Inc.; and
• held a closed session to discuss personnel and consult with the board attorney.