Winnebago County names retired Rockford firefighter as new emergency services coordinator

Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — A 23-year veteran of the Rockford Fire Department has been appointed as the new coordinator of Winnebago County’s Emergency Service & Disaster Agency.

Winnebago County Board Chairman Joe Chiarelli announced the appointment of Trent Brass on Wednesday.

Brass will be responsible for organizing, administering, coordinating, training and executing operations of county resources in the event of an emergency.

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He retired from the Rockford Fire Department last month with the rank of fire district chief. He holds numerous accreditations from the federal and state Emergency Management Agencies, as well as state certifications for emergency response services.

“Trent’s extensive experience and training will be a major asset to Winnebago County,” Chiarelli said in a news release. “Our number one priority is public safety, and we need to do everything in our power to educate our community on emergency preparedness and ensure the protection of our citizens as we mitigate any type of disaster.”

Kurt Whisenand, who previously served in the role, has moved into the position of facilities security director for the county. Whisenand’s new responsibilities include the oversight of security in and around the downtown campus buildings, including the recently added security at the County Administration building.

“I am excited to begin my new role as the emergency manager of Winnebago County,” Brass said. “My goal is to create a strong community partnership across Winnebago County, guaranteeing that all our residents and communities are equipped and prepared for any emergencies or disasters that may come their way.”