Sullivan County might be divided when it comes to political or civic issues. We are diverse in economic, social, and religious backgrounds. But, one thing is certain, during a crisis there is no community in the world that unites and works to assist those in need like Sullivan County residents.

It appears as if we are continually being tested with one disaster after another. The resilience of those trained to protect us both professional and volunteer is truly remarkable.

With the snap of the finger, these people are “Johnny on the Spot” prepared to risk their lives for our protection and safety.

We all thought the recent rains that washed out Swinging Bridge, Brisco Dam and other areas were devastating enough. What we witnessed last week was beyond belief.

I spoke with Sullivan County Public Safety Commissioner Richard Martinkovic this week about the catastrophic heartbreaking act of nature which took place in Sullivan County. We discussed in length how our brave professionals and volunteers handled the situation.

There is no one in Sullivan County more qualified to lead us during an emergency situation than Richard Martinkovic. That is why I was elated when our politically motivated legislature looked above and beyond party affiliation when they hired him for the position which was created in 2005.

Martinkovic is a man who wears many hats. He was appointed Director of Emergency Management/Homeland Security and Fire Coordinator in October. 2002. He has attended training at the New York State Fire Academy and National Fire Academy in Emmetsburg, Maryland.

In fact, he just completed Incident Command Training at the US Homeland Security Center for Domestic Preparedness in Anniston, Alabama this past May.

I go back with Martinkovic a long time. As Liberty Town Supervisor he was always responsive and repeatedly did what was right for his constituents. I knew he would be the perfect person to fill the post of Sullivan County Public Safety Commissioner.

Martinkovic knows how to work well with all of our law enforcement agencies, State Police, Sheriff’s Department, and our village Police Departments. All of our volunteer fire departments and emergency service agencies have nothing but respect and admiration for Martinkovic and his leadership.

I asked Martinkovic what happens when Sullivan County is in a state of emergency as we were last week.

He told me that he immediately opens the Emergency Operations Center at the Airport. The center has representatives from fire, police, emergency medical service, various county departments, and New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control.

Martinkovic said they then monitor the 911 Center and move all resources to where it is warranted.

For example, they send help to other county’s and towns as needed. When we spoke, the Liberty Fire Department was sent to Hancock so their members could get some rest. Liberty was replaced with the Callicoon Fire Department. All this coordination is done through Martinkovic as the Fire Coordinator.

What happened last week was shocking and devastating to every person trained in natural disasters. The situation became progressively worse as every second ticked. Creeks and steams that never posed a threat exploded. Tragically an innocent life was lost during the outburst of water.

With our brave volunteers risking their own lives, those who became homeless were rescued to area shelters.

We spoke about the limited resources Sullivan County has in emergencies. Even though not often needed, our county has only a few rescue boats. The Sheriff’s Office assisted with a jet-ski for water rescues.

Hopefully our elected officials on the national and state level will set aside funding so we can purchase this much needed equipment.

Martinkovic described Sullivan County’s many volunteers and professionals as being “absolutely spectacular. There is nothing they won’t do,” he added.

As we move ahead, and put the devastating flood behind us, Sullivan County will be rebuilding. Hopefully proper state and federal aid will be pouring in.

Martinkovic stressed that there will be a need for proper professional planning as we begin our massive reconstruction. “Nature and civilization will have to find a way to co-exist,” he emphasized.

I am certain that with Richard Martinkovic there as our coordinator and advocate we are in good hands.

To all of our trained professionals and volunteers thank you for being there for us. Words can never express your commitment and dedication - it can only be felt from the heart.

Email Bill