Montgomery County Commissioners took a step to ensure people in need have access to shelters in cold weather.
Commissioners voted 20-1 during the regular Monday meeting, to pass a resolution authorizing the county to be able to open emergency shelters if needed.
The county designated eight facilities that could be converted to shelters. Locations include: William O. Beach Civic Hall, the old career center, the old section of the Montgomery County jail, RichEllen Park community room, Woodlawn Park community room, Civitan Park community room and South Guthrie Community room. All are county owned buildings.
The county would open the shelters after coordinating with the Emergency Management Agency and would work with the city of Clarksville and other agencies like the American Red Cross.
“The county didn’t have a mechanism in place,” said Jim Durrett, Montgomery County Mayor. “If we needed to do something then we had to convene the entire commission. This is just a mechanism that allows us to be prepared.”
Mayor Durrett said the county is monitoring weather conditions daily, and would consult with the Emergency Management Agency before opening the shelters.
