Sheriff's office names new Emergency Manager

People

Sep 10

The Kent County Sheriff’s Office has appointed Scott Corbin as the new Kent County Emergency Manager. Corbin assumed his new role on September 1, succeeding Matt Groesser, who has retired after a career spanning nearly 27 years.

Most recently, Scott Corbin served as the County’s Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator. He brings extensive experience to his new role, having previously served as the Emergency Management Director for Allegan County. Corbin’s diverse background includes positions such as Assistant Director of the Putnam County Office of Public Safety, Officer with the Ottawa Police Department in Ohio, and a Sergeant in the U.S. Army Reserves 938 Engineer Combat Battalion.

“Scott's extensive experience in emergency management and his proven leadership skills make him the ideal person to lead our emergency management team,” said Sheriff Michelle LaJoye-Young. “His background in public safety and commitment to community service will be invaluable as we continue to enhance our emergency preparedness and response capabilities.”

Corbin is well-prepared for his new role, having served as the Legislative Liaison of the Michigan Emergency Management Association from 2009 to 2013 and as President of the association for two terms from 2014 to 2017. His involvement in various boards and committees, including the Holland Planning Commission and the State Homeland Security Advisory Committee, further underscores his dedication to public service.

“We are deeply grateful to Matt for his years of service to Kent County. His expertise in emergency communications, institutional knowledge, and ability to forge connections with key stakeholders have heightened our emergency management program. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors,” Sheriff LaJoye-Young said.

Corbin holds an Associate’s Degree in Law Enforcement from Owens Community College, a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Management from Bluffton University, and a Master’s in Homeland Security and Defense from the Naval Postgraduate School, Center for Homeland Defense and Security. He is also a graduate of the Northwestern School of Police Staff & Command program.

“I am thankful for the opportunity to serve as Kent County’s Emergency Manager and appreciate the trust placed in me to lead through the challenges we will face,” said Corbin. “I look forward to working with our dedicated team to continue building on the strong foundation laid by my predecessors.”