Williamson County has tapped a new leader for its emergency operations, introducing Bill Zito as the Senior Director of Emergency Services. At the December 12 session of the Williamson County Commissioners Court, Zito officially accepted the role of overseeing the county's critical response divisions, which include Emergency Medical Services, Emergency Communications, Emergency Management, and the Fire Marshal’s Office.
County Judge Bill Gravell hailed the veteran's long-standing commitment to public service. "Bill Zito has served our nation faithfully for all of his life," Gravell stated. "He is an Army veteran who continued to serve in the federal government for many, many years. We are extremely fortunate that he now desires to work in the county he also calls home," as reported by the official county website. Zito's expertise spans various sectors of government and emergency management, reflected in his educational background with a master's in both Emergency and Disaster Management and Legislative Affairs.
Before stepping into his new county role, Zito's robust resume included positions such as emergency management director for the city of Hutto and liaison officer for the Texas Division of Emergency Management. His federal experience is notable with his tenure as the deputy chief of staff for FEMA and as assistant administrator of National Continuity Programs, according to Williamson County's announcement.
Zito has also been a political stalwart, having worked as chief of staff for Representative Pete Olson (TX-22) and Representative Kay Granger (TX-12), and deputy chief of staff for Representative John Carter (TX-31). His career in the military is equally distinguished; Zito retired as a command sergeant major after 23 years of service in the U.S. Army. "I am honored to have the opportunity to serve WilCo as the senior director of Emergency Services," Zito expressed. "The responsibility to ensure my neighbors are well taken care of on what may be their worst day is not one I take lightly. I will serve this county with the integrity, dedication, and competence our residents expect and deserve," he added, citing sentiments obtained from the county's press release.
