The Marshall County Commissioners heard a request from 911/Central Dispatch Communications Supervisor Zach McGuigan to implement a backup plan for when there is an unexpected loss of service to the Central Dispatch phones.
McGuigan explained that there is an internet-based phone system at Central Dispatch. When the main feed goes down, the backup comes online, but creates a lag in response time. There is a delay anywhere from 30 to 60 seconds until the backup internet is fully functional. The plan is to add four cell phones to each console for dispatchers which would be dependent on LTE. There would be no delay as the cell phone would be on consistently with a specific app to keep service on for the general public.
Dan Sammartano explained that the county paid for two internet services to assist with redundancy but it is susceptible to have a single point of failure that affects both providers and it has happened in recent weeks. He believes that revamping call routing into the building and having these cell phones as a third option would be the best backup plan.
Commissioner Kevin Overmyer asked if cell phones get good reception inside the building but there is a tower outside of the sheriff’s department to ensure good signal.
There would be no cost to get the cell phones.
The commissioners unanimously approved a motion to get four new cell phones for Central Dispatch.
