911 Board Readies for Moomaw's Departure, Discusses Text to 911

Effingham County 911 board members discussed the upcoming retirement of System Administrator Jodi Moomaw during this month's meeting.

Moomaw was recognized at the meeting for her 25 years of service with the thought that she was departing for a new job at the end of the month. Now, her departure has been delayed by a month due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Moomaw's future employer agreed to delay her departure until the end of April while the pandemic remains an issue.

In the meantime, the 911 Board discussed the process of choosing a successor for Moomaw. Applications are being accepted through 3pm on April 9. The Board's Personnel Committee will meet April 13 to review the applicants and decide on a recommendation to the full Board as a successor. A decision should come at the full Board's meeting on April 21.

Board members also learned about Text to 911. Basically, folks can contact 911 by texting "911" and then typing in the message you need to send. 911 Board Chairman Julie Stephens said the system will be beneficial for the hearing-impaired or to those who might be in a situation where they can't talk on the phone. By the way, Text to 911 is not yet available statewide.

During public comments, County Board member Doug McCain asked whether 911 telecommunicators are checking whether callers for assistance are being asked about symptoms of coronavirus? McCain was told that telecommunicators are getting information so those responding know what precautions to take.

It was also shared that telecommunicator Billie Bales has agreed to lead the 911 public education effort during 911 Education Month in April.