Asheville, North Carolina, September 11, 2025
News Summary
A team of six telecommunicators from Kentucky received accolades for their vital role in assisting during the aftermath of Hurricane Helene in Asheville, North Carolina. Deployed for two weeks, the team managed emergency responses, alleviating pressure on local dispatchers. The recognition marks a significant milestone for the Kentucky Telecommunicator Emergency Response Taskforce as it sets a precedent for inter-state cooperation in disaster management and highlights the essential contributions of telecommunicators during emergencies.
Louisville, Kentucky – A dedicated team of six Kentucky telecommunicators has been honored for their exceptional service during the recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene in Asheville, North Carolina. Deployed in 2024, this team provided critical assistance to a storm-impacted 911 center, playing an integral role in managing emergency responses during a challenging time.
The team spent two weeks in Asheville, where their responsibilities included handling emergency calls, supporting dispatch operations, and providing relief to local personnel. This deployment marked a significant step for the Kentucky Telecommunicator Emergency Response Taskforce (KY TERT), as it was the first time a team was sent from Kentucky to respond to a disaster beyond the state.
Among those recognized were two Louisville-based members, Justin Bagby, a MetroSafe supervisor, and Kimberly Sweazy, a 911 dispatcher. Their efforts have not only been acknowledged by their peers but have also drawn commendations from local leaders, including Louisville’s Mayor Craig Greenberg, who expressed pride in their contribution to the crisis response in North Carolina.
The Kentucky Telecommunicator Emergency Response Taskforce awarded the team at the Kentucky Emergency Services Conference for their unwavering commitment to public safety. This recognition was particularly meaningful as it was the first of its kind for KY TERT, highlighting the significant impact that telecommunicators have during emergencies.
Angela Downes, the Assistant Director at MetroSafe 911, emphasized the essential work carried out by these telecommunicators in alleviating the workload of local North Carolina dispatchers during the recovery effort. The experience not only improved local operations but also fostered community solidarity, as Bagby and Sweazy witnessed inspiring acts of kindness among residents, sharing food and other resources during a time of need.
KY TERT’s mission is to mobilize trained telecommunicators to reinforce emergency communications during disasters when local resources are overwhelmed. The deployment of this team serves as an essential model for future disaster response, establishing a precedent for how states can collaborate and support one another in times of crisis.
Background Context
Hurricane Helene struck the Southeastern United States in 2024, leading to severe damage and disruption. Local emergency services were quickly overwhelmed by the number of calls and coordination required to respond effectively. The deployment of the Kentucky telecommunicators was a critical part of the coordinated response plan, aimed at restoring normalcy and ensuring public safety for affected communities.
KY TERT’s capability to mobilize quickly in response to such emergencies reflects the preparedness and commitment of telecommunicators to serve, ensuring that communities have access to vital emergency services whenever they are needed.
Key Features of the Kentucky Telecommunicators’ Deployment
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Asheville, North Carolina |
| Duration of Deployment | Two weeks |
| Team Size | Six telecommunicators |
| Award | First recognition for KY TERT at the Kentucky Emergency Services Conference |
| Main Activities | Handling emergency calls, dispatch support, local personnel relief |
| Key Members | Justin Bagby, Kimberly Sweazy |
FAQ
1. What is KY TERT?
KY TERT stands for Kentucky Telecommunicator Emergency Response Taskforce, an organization that mobilizes trained telecommunicators to assist during emergencies.
2. Why was the team deployed to North Carolina?
The team was deployed due to overwhelming emergency call volumes and the need for additional support at the local 911 center following Hurricane Helene.
3. What recognition did the team receive?
The team received an award at the Kentucky Emergency Services Conference for their exceptional service and performance during the recovery efforts.
4. How does KY TERT benefit local communities during disasters?
KY TERT helps reinforce emergency communications, ensuring that local dispatchers are supported, and community members have access to emergency services when they are most needed.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Spectrum News: KY TERT Deployment Award
- WHAS11: Louisville First Responders Deployed
- Spectrum News: Bone Marrow Donations
- PR Newswire: Sazerac Company Online Auction for Relief Efforts
- My News 13: Orlando Airport Delays
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
