Community Heroes: Bill Armstrong

The Sunshine State Honors Bill Armstrong For Taking The Lead In Disaster Preparedness

On May 31, emergency planners from 67 Florida counties gathered at the State Agricultural Response Team’s (SART) annual meeting, and Bill Armstrong, Director of Hillsborough County Animal Services, received raves all around.

In a special presentation, the state’s Commissioner of Agriculture, Charles Bronson presented an award of excellence to Armstrong for his exceptional service to Florida’s emergency operations. Bronson credited Armstrong with bringing animal issues to the forefront, recognizing that, under his direction, Hillsborough County has become one of the leading examples in developing a county animal response team during disasters. "Bill Armstrong is synonymous with SART,” says Bronson.

Armstrong has had a long-standing role in developing the Sunshine State’s disaster preparedness plans. With his help, Florida has become the first state to recognize the importance of having animal issues addressed in its Emergency Response Plan. Following the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, Armstrong supervised animal control officers from all over Florida in the rescue and recovery of displaced animals.

When presented with the award, Armstrong gave the credit to his staff and other SART team members, saying, "I did not realize I was going to be given this award. I am flattered and a little taken back. The credit goes to many of you and your staffs, who have really done the tough work in this critical area of disaster preparedness. I owe you all my thanks for the great work you have done and your outstanding leadership, commitment and dedication to helping us advance our capability and cause."

Right now Armstrong shows no sign of slowing down. He has put into place an exemplary disaster plan and professional team at Hillsborough County Animal Services and, last year, he co-founded CHAART (Community of Hillsborough Animal & Agricultural Reasons Team), a nonprofit organization dedicated to effectively planning for animal and agricultural emergencies in Hillsborough County.

Sherry Silk, ASPCA Southern Regional Outreach Manager, has nothing but praise for Armstrong, calling him a "great leader and animal lover."