Jay Klopfenstein Speaks to Kiwanis

The Kiwanis Club welcomed Jay Klopfenstein, Director of the Paulding County Emergency Management Agency (EMA), as the guest speaker at its meeting today. Klopfenstein was invited to speak by fellow Kiwanian Jane Gray.

Klopfenstein has served as the Paulding County EMA Director for approximately a year and a half. During his presentation, he discussed the many responsibilities involved in emergency management, including weather monitoring and response.

He provided information about the county’s tornado sirens, which are tested weekly. While the EMA is not directly responsible for maintaining the sirens, Klopfenstein explained that he can help connect communities with the appropriate resources when a siren is not functioning properly.

Another important part of his role is assessing storm damage and assisting residents if state funding becomes available. He also works with the county’s emergency preparedness plans, including the Operations Plan, Hazmat Plan, and Mitigation Plan. A Cybersecurity Plan is currently in-process of being added to these plans very soon.

Klopfenstein also maintains and manages the county’s training facility located on Fairground Drive. In addition, he assists with canteen services for local EMS and fire departments when needed and works with the county’s radio communications system.

The Kiwanis Club appreciates Klopfenstein taking the time to share information about the important work of the Paulding County Emergency Management Agency and the many ways it supports the community.