Overton County Commissioners confirmed a new EMS director Monday night, approving the appointment by a split 8-6 roll call vote.
Overton County Executive Austin Dodson said he approved the selection of Caleb Sells October 15 before bringing the appointment to the commission for confirmation. Sells, whose appointment becomes effective Tuesday, told commissioners he understands that taking the position does not automatically earn the confidence of employees or the community.
“I know that trust is not something that comes automatically with the title, it must be earned through actions, decisions, communication and accountability,” Sells said. “I do not expect anyone to judge me solely by what I say tonight, I expect to be judged by the work I do and the way I carry out this responsibility.”
Sells said he began his emergency services career in Overton County as an advanced EMT before becoming a paramedic and later a critical care paramedic while working full-time.
“I respect those concerns because I understand the importance of the position and the responsibility that it carries,” Sells said. “I’m not going to stand here and pretend that I have already done everything this job requires.”
Sells said his approach to leadership will focus on preparation, judgment and accountability. He said he plans to evaluate the service and determine where improvements are needed rather than make changes simply for the sake of change.
“Our employees deserve leadership that communicates clearly, treats people fairly, establishes expectations and holds everyone to the same standard,” Sells said. “Our citizens deserve an ambulance service that is dependable, professional and prepared to provide the best care possible when they need it most.”
Dodson said the commission used a roll call vote to make each commissioner’s position clear. Commissioners Darwin Clark, Stephen Jordan, Brett Livingston, Cindy Robbins, Geraldine Walker and Gerald Windell voted against confirming the appointment.
“If you choose to approve my appointment tonight, I will take that responsibility seriously, I will work hard to earn your confidence, the confidence of our employees and the trust of our community that we serve,” Sells said. “What I can promise is that I will approach this position with integrity, willingness to learn and listen, commitment to doing the work and an understanding that I’m accountable for the decisions that I make.”
In other business, commissioners voted to return future commission meetings to the Overton County Courthouse beginning in November. The commission also appointed Jimmy Conner to the North Overton County Utility District Board of Commissioners and Gary Ledbetter to the West Overton County Utility District Board of Commissioners. Stephen Jordan was appointed to the Library Board of Trustees.
The Overton County Commission will next meet November 9 at 6pm.