Gadsden EMA Management Transitions to Etowah County; City Launches Emergency Response Team

Gadsden, Ala. – Responsibility for emergency management in Gadsden has officially shifted from the city to Etowah County, effective September 1, 2025.

Until now, Etowah County was among the few counties in Alabama where the Emergency Management Agency (EMA) was not county-operated. With the transition, Etowah County will now oversee all emergency management functions for the area.

Gadsden Mayor Craig Ford said the change brings Gadsden in line with the rest of the state while ensuring residents continue receiving uninterrupted services.

“We’ll always be ready and willing to help our neighbors in times of need, but this is a good change for Gadsden that brings us in line with the rest of the state,” Ford said. “We’re also making sure that Gadsden citizens aren’t losing any services as Etowah County takes over emergency management.”

To maintain strong disaster preparedness and local coordination, the City of Gadsden has created the Gadsden Emergency Response Team (GERT). The team will include city officials, first responders, and representatives from several city departments.

“When there’s a disaster, it’s critical to have clear communication and response coordination between the city and Emergency Management Agencies at the county, state and federal levels,” Ford said.

Citizens needing assistance from the Etowah County EMA can contact the office at 256-549-5354 or by email at ema@etowahcounty.org