SPOKANE, Wash. – Spokane Regional Emergency Communications (SREC) has formally terminated its contract with the Spokane Fire Department (SFD), initiating a six-month transition for the city to establish its own emergency communication services.
This decision follows more than seven years of collaboration and 18 months of engagement with Mayor Lisa Brown’s administration.
SREC released the decision saying that the city of Spokane pursued separation from them.
“Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, it has become clear that the city desires local control over its dispatch services and is no longer interested in being part of a fully regionalized, shared model,” Lori Markham, Executive Director of SREC said.
The city of Spokane had proposed changes to the SREC’s governance structure, citing inadequate representation and financial oversight.
SREC stated that they believe the regional model serves all agencies equitably and efficiently.
The decision by the City to establish its own Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) may lead to increased operational costs for residents according to SREC.
“Our focus moving forward is on strengthening regional resilience and advancing our strategic vision for unified high-performing 911 service across Spokane County,” Chief Cody Rohrbach, SREC Board Chair and Fire Chief for Spokane County Fire District 3 said.
SREC said they will continue to support its 20 member agencies committed to regional cooperation.
