HOMELAND SECURITY: A COORDINATED APPROACH
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo -- The Missouri Governor's Advisory Council on Homeland Security sounded a theme of "one state, one strategy" when it met March 4 for its bi-monthly meeting. New Department of Public Safety Director John M. Britt, who chaired the meeting for the first time, said “coordination, cooperation and communication are vital to making all Homeland Security efforts effective."

Although the meeting covered topics ranging from cyber security and safe school efforts to protecting food and agriculture, participants concentrated their discussion on coordinating efforts between agencies and regions of the state and making the most effective use of federal funds. The Council is focused on creating a statewide, comprehensive strategy that incorporates the diverse needs of each region and has long-term benefits and sustainability.

Missouri Homeland Security Coordinator and Vice Chairman Paul Fennewald stressed the importance of asking the question, "What's sustainable if the money stops?" He said a priority should be investing in projects and programs that will pay dividends long after federal funding may be scaled back.

Director Britt said he was "impressed with the makeup of the Council and appreciated everyone’s time and dedication."

Governor's Homeland Security Advisory Council
Seated, left to right: Col. James Keathley, MSHP Commander; Vice Chairman Paul Fennewald, Homeland Security Coordinator; Chairman John M. Britt, Dept. of Public Safety Director; Paul Parmenter, SEMA Director; Monica Hoy, representing Dept. of Mental Health Director Dr. Keith Schafer.

Standing, left to right: Bill McCoy, representing Dept. of Economic Development Director Linda Martinez; Dr. Robert Stein, Dept. of Higher Education Commissioner; Chief Rob Wylie, Cottleville Community Fire Protection Dist.; Mick Covington, Missouri Sheriffs' Assoc.; Col. Rad Talburt, MSWP Commissioner; Randy Cole, State Fire Marshal; Brig. Gen. Stephen Danner, National Guard Adjutant General; Wess Henderson, representing Public Service Commission Chairman Robert Clayton; Ray Wadley, representing Dept. of Agriculture Director Dr. Jon Hagler; Alan Reinkemeyer, representing Dept. of Natural Resources Director Mark Templeton; Gina Jacobs, representing Dept. of Social Services Director Ron Levy; Dr. Joe Waeckerle, Chief Medical Officer and Ex-Officio member.

Not pictured: Margaret Donnelly, Dept. of Health & Senior Services Director; Pete Rahn, MoDOT Director; Bill Bryan, Missouri Chief Information Officer; Harold Bengsch, Greene County Commissioner.
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