Blackford County: EMA Director Reports Tornado Siren Failure, EOC Generator Neglect, and New Mobile Equipment
From the Blackford County Commissioner meeting on August 17, 2026
EMA Director Jason provided several updates to commissioners on emergency infrastructure following the multi-day severe weather event from August 10 through 15.
The tornado siren at the credit union location ran for approximately five seconds during a test, then stopped. All fuses were checked and found to be good. The diagnosis is likely battery failure. The Hartford City Fire Department has been assisting with siren inspections and has purchased replacement batteries, but they have not yet been installed.
EOC Generator
The county's Emergency Operations Center generator has not been properly cycled in approximately three years, despite requiring monthly testing. Tyler Hunt confirmed it may have cycled only once in that time. Without a working generator, the county cannot open an EOC during a large power outage — a significant concern given the recent storms. The county has $2,500 set aside from a grant for generator service, but commissioners tabled the repair pending a decision on relocating the EOC. All surrounding counties have below-grade EOCs; Blackford County is exploring possible locations for a new one.
Mobile Equipment
Commissioners approved $5,400 in grant-funded purchases for the EMA truck, including a computer and tablet with mount and a mobile printer for field use. The vote was 2-0.
Radios and LEPC
Jason located 10 previously unaccounted-for EMA radios, which will be distributed between two locations. The next LEPC meeting is August 26 at 11 AM.
Source: YouTube transcript — Blackford County Commissioner Meeting - August 17, 2026
Some information may be inaccurate due to video audio quality.
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