Putnam County Hires Director Of Emergency Management

CARMEL, NY – Earlier this week, Christopher Shields started his tenure as the new Director of Emergency Management in the Putnam County Bureau of Emergency Services.

The Philipstown resident steps into a role that has been vacant, bringing with him 20 years of experience as a Special Agent in the US Department of Homeland Security and 6 years as a US Capitol Police Special Agent, county officials said.

Shields assumed his duties on Tuesday, coinciding with a snowstorm that dumped nearly a foot of snow on Putnam County. He worked side-by-side with Emergency Services Commissioner Robert Lipton in managing the response efforts, county officials said.

The Bureau of Emergency Services maintains a county-wide communications organization and is responsible for the operations and maintenance of the enhanced 911 system. The Emergency Management directorate plans for response, remediation / mitigation and recovery from natural and man-made disasters.

"His background in federal law enforcement and emergency response will be invaluable as we continue to enhance our county's emergency preparedness and response capabilities," Lipton said.

Shields will be paid $92,000 a year.

The appointment of Shields reflects Putnam County's commitment to maintaining a strong and capable emergency management team, ready to respond effectively to the needs of the community, county officials said.

"We are fortunate to have someone of Christopher Shields' caliber join our team," County Executive Kevin Byrne said in the announcement. "His extensive experience and immediate involvement in assisting with our recent snowstorm demonstrates his commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents. His diverse emergency services background, including his time with the United States’ Capitol Police, will be invaluable to our team as it takes on new responsibilities and challenges in emergency management planning and response."

Shields shared his enthusiasm for the new role, saying, "I am honored to join Putnam County as the Director of Emergency Management. My career in federal law enforcement has provided me with the skills and experience necessary to contribute to the safety and security of the community. I look forward to working collaboratively with our dedicated emergency services team to ensure the county is well-prepared for any challenges that may arise."

“Chris Shields is a consummate professional with a deep understanding of emergency management. I’ve had the pleasure of knowing him for many years, and his dedication to public safety is unmatched," Putnam County Sheriff Kevin McConville said. "His appointment is a significant asset to Putnam County.”