Hamilton County Reporter

The Hamilton County 911 dispatch operation has garnered a number of awards lately, but county officials will need to conduct a search for new leadership as two top people plan to move on.

Mike Snowden, Executive Director of Communications for Hamilton County, has tendered his resignation. He has accepted a job as City Administrator for the city of O’Fallon, Missouri.

“I wish to convey my thanks to the County Commissioners for their faith in my abilities,” Snowden said. “I would also like to thank the members of the 9-1-1 Executive Board, the Public Safety Board, as well as the Mayors for their support, guidance and rock solid support during my tenure.”

O’Fallon is Snowden’s home town.

“His exceptional leadership qualities were demonstrated during the Noblesville West Middle School shooting,” said County Commissioner Mark Heirbrandt. “We wish him continued success in his future endeavors and thank him for his service.”

Snowden’s last day with Hamilton County will be Jan. 25, 2019. An interim Director will be announced soon. That person will supervise the communication center while the county conducts a national search for Snowden’s replacement.

Meanwhile, Hamilton County Communication Center Director of Operations Darin Riney has tendered his resignation. He has accepted a job the new chief of Westcom Communications Center, the consolidated 9-1-1 public safety dispatch center in West Des Moines, Iowa, which serves a population of 160,000.

Prior to serving Hamilton County residents, Riney was the deputy director and dispatcher for Wayne County Emergency Communications in Richmond, Ind. He has also served as a reserve police officer and a volunteer firefighter.

Riney’s last day at the Hamilton County Communication Center will be Feb. 5, 2019. He will begin his job in Iowa on Feb. 11.