911 Board Hears About Start of Efficiency Study

The work to determine the efficiency of the Effingham County 911 system should begin next month.

911 System Administrator Jodi Moomaw Tuesday got approval from the 911 Board to schedule a visit by representatives of Intertech Associates the week of August 5-9.  The reps are expected to interview at least a dozen people and inspect the city and county 911 operations.  They will also talk with other emergency services representatives and members of the 911 Board. 

Moomaw said the plan is for the Intertech reps to come in on Monday and leave on Friday.

The efficiency effort is an outgrowth of concerns since 911 began in the county that the system could operate on a less costly basis if there was one, rather than two, dispatching points.

In other business, Moomaw reported that Governor Quinn has signed a measure that extends 911 funding for another year.  There had been an effort in Springfield to divert some of the 911 funds for another agency.

There was also discussion about a committee established to help provide assistance to those emergency responders suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, to aid in their recovery.

The 911 Board also recognized retired County EMA Director Russ Thomas with a plaque for his 17 years on the Board.  Effingham Fire Chief Joe Holomy has replaced Thomas on the Board.