Board chairman Kurt Prenzler's move to replace the county's Emergency Management Agency director was thwarted on Wednesday by board members who refused to introduce a motion.
"Hearing none, it fails for lack of a motion," Prenzler said. "We can go on."
Prior to the meeting, Prenzler said the decision to replace EMA director Tony Falconio with retired Air Force colonel Rick Keasey had been under consideration "for months." Prenzler declined to comment on the timing of the replacement coming days after a tornado ravaged the Edwardsville Amazon warehouse, killing six.
"It’s time to go in a new direction," Prenzler said. "Rick Keasey...has the organizational and leadership skills needed."
Several board members spoke out in support of Falconio, including Eric Foster (R-Granite City), who said Falconio performed flawlessly in the tornado's aftermath.
"Why do you continually try to get rid of people the board advises you to leave alone?" Foster said.
Prenzler responded that it was not appropriate to discuss a person not up for appointment, "it's only appropriate to discuss the person being appointed."
Board member Mick Madison (R-Bethalto) said Keasey would be "splendid" as EMA director, but would be voting no on his appointment.
Jack Minner (D-Edwardsville) said he "definitely" opposed the Keasey appointment. Doc Holliday, Sr. said Falconio does "outstanding" work in his role.