Unicoi County EMS Board Postpones Decision on Agency Manager Appointment

Board cites need for more information on department's financial situation and leadership changes

Mar. 10, 2026 at 5:04am

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The Unicoi County EMS Board has postponed a decision on appointing EMA director Jimmy Erwin as an agency manager, following an extensive public discussion. The matter arose after current EMS director Rebecca Harrison sought the board's support due to personal challenges she is facing. The board cited the need for more information on the department's financial situation and leadership changes before making a decision.

Why it matters

This decision highlights the complexities involved in managing a county's emergency medical services, including balancing leadership changes, financial challenges, and employee concerns. The outcome could impact the continuity and quality of EMS services provided to the Unicoi County community.

The details

During the meeting, Harrison expressed her commitment to her role but said the responsibilities can at times become overwhelming. Board chairman Glenn White explained the board's involvement is necessary due to legal protocols that must be followed when appointing new leadership. EMS employees voiced opinions on the proposed leadership change, with some opposing working under Erwin's leadership. The board also discussed budget shortfalls and fears of pay cuts within the department.

  • The EMS Board meeting where the decision was postponed took place on March 10, 2026.

The players

Rebecca Harrison

The current EMS director in Unicoi County, Tennessee who is facing personal challenges and sought the board's support.

Jimmy Erwin

The EMA director in Unicoi County who was being considered for an agency manager position within the EMS department.

Glenn White

The chairman of the Unicoi County EMS Board.

Crystal Miner

An EMS employee in Unicoi County since April 2021 who voiced support for both Harrison and Erwin.

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What they’re saying

“In the past, when we faced difficulties, like running deficits, it's our duty to intervene. There's been a lot of speculation surrounding this situation, which is typical when dealing with such issues. We'll revisit the situation and see what the director wants. It's her decision to make.”

— Glenn White, Chairman of the EMS Board

“She's a professional. She's my director. She sees everyone as a person, and she deserves that same respect, especially from the board and from her crews … The biggest thing that bothered me in all of this, that I was unaware of, is that Rebecca was denied the first position to be her first opportunity to be our director, because she was raising her grandkids, and that was not denied by the mayor. That bothers me as a woman in a service, because we don't have very many women in the service.”

— Crystal Miner, EMS Employee

What’s next

The EMS Board stated they will revisit the situation and see what the director, Rebecca Harrison, wants to do regarding the agency manager position. It's unclear when or if a decision on Erwin's appointment will be made.

The takeaway

This postponement highlights the need for transparent communication, financial accountability, and consideration of employee concerns when managing a county's emergency medical services. The board's decision-making process will be closely watched as it navigates these leadership and budgetary challenges.