ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Alex McKnight has become the new director of Buncombe County Public Safety Communications after serving as the interim director for four months. McKnight plans to focus the department on responsible AI use, deeper integration with public safety partners and more.
McKnight took over the role on Sept. 21, 2026. During his time in the interim position, the director “worked to rebuild strong foundations in the department’s staffing, training, accountability, communication, relationships and consistent expectations,” Buncombe County said in a press release.
“We’ve also worked to strengthen relationships with our public safety partners, improve 911 call-answer performance, increase employee involvement in department decisions and make sure our frontline staff have a greater voice in where the department is headed,” McKnight added. “I want to continue that work.”…