Harris County Emergency Services District No. 11 made several steps in becoming an EMS provider for its residents at its Dec. 7 special meeting.

The district, which met via telephone, officially hired Doug Hooten as its first executive director. Hooten’s hiring was announced Dec. 3. The board met mostly in closed, executive session, only returning to open session to make quick decisions.

The district directed Hooten to hire a chief operating officer, chief administration officer, executive assistant and medical director.

Regina Adams, who represents ESD 11 from law firm Radcliffe Bobbitt Adams Polley PLLC, said hiring a medical director is required to apply for an EMS provider license. It has been rumored the district intends to become the EMS provider for its residents but has not been confirmed.

The district also moved to enter into a lease agreement with an unnamed property as well as to pursue “actions required regarding litigation” in matters related to Cypress Creek EMS. The EMS provider recently took the district to court over withheld funds.