(KMZA)--The Nemaha County Commission has appointed an interim county emergency preparedness director.

Following an executive session during their regular meeting Monday, the commission approved a resolution appointing Sheriff Rich Vernon to the interim role retro-active to March 3.

Vernon will receive an extra $500 a month in compensation during the time that he serves as interim director.

The Commission voted in a special meeting March 2 to accept the resignation of former emergency preparedness director Russel Lierz, which was effective immediately.

Lierz had held the position since December 2018.