Jim Bogart, who assumed the position of Deputy Emergency Manager in mid-2022, has worked to support the development of emergency response strategies for Clay County. Before stepping into this role, Bogart served in law enforcement for 33 years– the last 15 years in Clay County as Undersheriff and K-9 handler for the Sheriff’s office.  Before working in Clay County, he was a Canine Patrol Sergeant and served as a volunteer Fireman for 4 years, where he earned two awards for his service. 

Bogart transitioned from law enforcement due to an injury, but his passion for public service remains. He says he enjoys his position with Clay County Emergency Management.

“I like my role now, it is totally different from working at the sheriff’s office,” Bogart said. “Working at the sheriff’s office is more boots on the ground, and here we develop emergency response plans, training, and lead the response to natural disasters and other emergencies.”

In his current position, Bogart has a responsibility to assist the Director of Emergency Management. His team works to prepare the community for potential disruptions in community infrastructure, including services such as water, electricity, and housing, along with training in those areas.

“As a Deputy Emergency Manager, we assist the Director of Emergency Management; we work with all of the government agencies in our jurisdiction, non-profit organizations, and private companies,” Bogart said. “We also work with the public and develop plans due to disruptions in the community.”

Bogart and the emergency management team face infrastructure challenges like water, electrical, and housing issues. He said Clay County Emergency Management works with agencies on the local, state, and federal levels to minimize these disruptions.

The county commissioners created the position of Deputy Emergency Manager to provide Bogart with the training to become the Director of Emergency Management.

As he prepares to make the transition into his new role in April 2025, Bogart says his connection with his community will help him succeed with his heightened responsibilities as a team effort.

“We have a good working relationship with other emergency management teams around the state and within our north central region, so I believe that will help me make the transition and learn new policies and procedures to better develop plans for emergencies.”

With the retirement of Pam Kemp in April, it is planned that Bogart will step into his role as the new Director of Emergency Management before the end of the month.