Columbia County EMA Receives 2025 EMA of the Year Award for Helene Work
Officials picked Columbia County from 161 county and municipal EMAs across Georgia. The group’s work during Hurricane Helene clinched the win.
In this aerial view, a tree lays on top of a building as the area recovers from the aftermath of Hurricane Helene on October 05, 2024 in Augusta, Georgia.
Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty ImagesThe Emergency Management Association of Georgia named the Columbia County Emergency Management Agency the 2025 EMA of the Year. This marks the first time the agency has won this honor since the county was founded.
Officials picked Columbia County from 161 county and municipal EMAs across Georgia. The group's work during Hurricane Helene clinched the win.
"The response to Hurricane Helene showed the strength and resilience of Columbia County. Our EMA worked tirelessly to protect lives and property, and their leadership ensured that our community came through one of the toughest challenges we've ever faced," said Columbia County Board of Commissioners Chairman Doug Duncan, according to WRDW.
Director Shawn Granato said the award belongs to more than just his team. "This award isn't just for our agency — it's for the entire county. It reflects the dedication and teamwork of nearly 1,500 employees across all departments," Granato said.
Granato pointed out that working together over the past year made this recognition happen. "Without the unified response demonstrated over the last year, this recognition would not have been possible," he said.
Columbia County has requested FEMA to reimburse more than $81 million. This money will help cover what the county spent on recovery. Officials say these funds will support the work still needed after Helene tore through.
