County Emergency Director: Duck, cover & hold

We'd like to duck, cover and hold as we consider the departure of King County's emergency director, Eric Holdeman.

The region is far from ready for the next earthquake, tsunami or other disaster. But Seattle, King County and the region are much better prepared than would be the case without Holdeman's good leadership.

In announcing Holdeman's resignation to go into private industry, King County Executive Ron Sims said, "He's as near to irreplaceable as one can get." Holdeman has been involved in regional disaster planning, educating the public in how to respond to a disaster and preparing for such novel threats as pandemic flu and terrorism.

There will be a national search for a new leader. The county should look for someone who can consolidate gains, promote new progress and continue what has become a conversation with the public about preparedness.

On the Net: metrokc.gov/prepare