911 Board Endorses Fire Response System

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Published on January 8 2019 3:11 pm
Last Updated on January 8 2019 3:11 pm
Written by Greg Sapp

Effingham County 911 Board members Tuesday authorized the interfacing of the 911 CAD system with new software that will aid firefighters in responding to calls. The system could be expanded to assist other emergency services agencies.

Effingham Fire Department Assistant Chief Matt Kulesza said the system, I M Responding, will give firefighters information on where hydrants are located as well as Knox boxes that provide access to unoccupied buildings when emergency calls are received. Kulesza said the City will pay for the system, but 911 had to give its okay to interfacing with the 911 CAD system since it is owned by 911. In answer to a question, Kulesza said other emergency services agencies can check on gaining access to the system by checking with Acting City Administrator Kelsey Lock. He said the more agencies involved with the system, the less cost to the City.

The 911 Board awarded a bid for a new National Fire Base System to Barbeck Communication for $7,038. Barbeck's bid includes a five-year warranty. The new system will replace a 20-year-old model.

Effingham County Sheriff Dave Mahon reported that he has made contact with a Mediacom representative about the former 911 tower site along US Route 40 between Effingham and Teutopolis. 911 no longer needs the tower or site, and Mediacom has interest in the building next to the tower site, and also rents space on the tower.

System Administrator Jodi Moomaw reported county calls to 911 in 2018 were down about 5% from the previous year, while city calls were up about 7%.

The 911 Board also finalized plans to move their meeting date to the third Tuesday of each month at noon, beginning in February. The later meeting date will allow more time to get financials done for the month and all bills processed to be paid.