MADISON MAYOR APPOINTED TO INDIANA EMERGENCY RESPONSE COMMISSION

Friday, May 15, 2026 at 9:38 AM

Reinforce the importance of planning, communication, and strong partnerships before emergencies happen

Madison Mayor Bob Courtney was recently appointed by Governor Mike Braun to serve on the Indiana Emergency Response Commission (IERC), a statewide commission focused on emergency planning, preparedness, and public safety across Indiana.

The Indiana Emergency Response Commission was established under state and federal law to help implement the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA). The commission supports emergency planning efforts throughout Indiana by reviewing local emergency response plans, overseeing local emergency planning committees, and helping ensure communities are prepared to respond to hazardous and emergency situations.

The commission is composed of representatives from state agencies, as well as governor-appointed members representing local government, the public, and private industry.

“Public safety and emergency preparedness are responsibilities that impact every community,” said Mayor Bob Courtney. “I’m grateful to Governor Braun for the opportunity to serve on the commission and represent communities like Madison at the state level.”

The appointment comes during a time when Madison has recently experienced emergency situations, including flooding along the Walnut Street and U.S. 421 corridor in late April and the fire at the historic Trinity United Methodist Church on Monday, May 11.

“Over the last several weeks, we’ve seen our first responders, utility crews, city departments, and community partners come together during difficult situations,” Courtney said. “Those experiences reinforce the importance of planning, communication, and strong partnerships before emergencies happen. I look forward to working with state and local leaders across Indiana to help strengthen emergency preparedness efforts and support communities facing a wide range of public safety challenges.”

More information about the Indiana Emergency Response Commission is available through the Indiana Department of Homeland Security at https://www.in.gov/dhs/boards-and-commissions/#tab-657930-4-Indiana_Emergency_Response_Commission.