WARREN — Trumbull County commissioners on Thursday took a step toward relocating the county’s 911 dispatch center by approving phase one of a project to move operations from Howland to a more modern facility in Cortland.
The 2-1 decision, with Commissioner Tony Bernard dissenting, authorizes Phillips Sekanick Architects of Warren and MCM Consulting Group Inc. of State College, Pa., to conduct structural engineering, space studies and cost analyses for a proposed renovation of the Cortland building owned by the Trumbull County Combined Health District.
The project’s initial cost is set at $18,300 for Phillips Sekanick and up to $45,561 for MCM Consulting, with renderings to aid in securing funding.
Commissioner Denny Malloy detailed dire working conditions at the current facility, describing it as a “dungeon” where employees face mandatory 65-hour work weeks and denied vacations because of staffing shortages.
“We’ve had employees enduring these conditions for five years,” Malloy said, noting a major flooding issue and inadequate space. He emphasized the need for a modern, Category 4-rated facility to withstand disasters, ensuring safety for first responders and residents relying on 911 services.
A feasibility study, costing $250,000 over recent years, identified the Cortland site as the optimal location after evaluating multiple facilities. Malloy highlighted the Combined Health District’s offer of rent-free space, with shared maintenance costs, and a unanimous recommendation from a 911 review board formed in January.
“It’s time to move forward,” he urged, citing the need for updated technology and better morale.
Commissioner Rick Hernandez supported the move, noting the current facility’s lack of windows and deteriorating structure exacerbates the stressful job of dispatchers. He estimated the relocation could save the county $1 million to $1.5 million compared to building a new facility.
However, Bernard expressed concerns about funding, questioning the lack of a clear financial plan and referencing other county needs, like the coroner’s lack of a permanent facility after the closure of Trumbull Regional Medical Center, which was its former home.
After some debate, commissioners approved a memorandum of understanding with the Combined Health District to formalize lease terms, signaling a commitment to the Cortland site.
“This is about the safety of every police officer, firefighter and resident who dials 911,” Malloy said, underscoring the urgency of modernizing the dispatch center.
The next steps involve finalizing cost estimates and securing funding, with the commissioners hopeful that the relocation will address long-standing issues and enhance emergency services countywide.
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