With much regret, the Barton County Commission Monday morning accepted the resignation of 911 Director Doug Hubbard. 

“I think he worked hard as 911 director,” said County Administrator Richard Boeckman. “He will be missed.”

Hubbard cited the pursuit of private business interests as his reason for leaving the post he’s held since 2011. He will remain on the job through the end of May.

“I appreciate the support over the years,” Hubbard said. Even after leaving, he offered to help with the transition to new emergency technology being deployed in the department.

Since being hired, Hubbard has worked to improve communications throughout the county, completed the narrowbanding project in the county and replaced console furniture at 911. He has also been involved with the Next Generation system development and the use of Active911, a digital messaging system for first responders, Boeckman said. 

“It’s been a very enlightening experience,” Hubbard said of being the director. “I’ve done a four-year tour of duty and I have deep down that this was a duty.”

He will remain fire chief in Claflin and serve as a emergency medical responder.

Following this action, the commission appointed Boeckman as the interim director until a new director is hired. Boeckman has filled in for the office in the past.

“That’s not an easy job to fill,” said Commissioner Jennifer Schartz. She hoped the search would e quick and they would able to find someone from the region to take the position.