SPOKANE, Wash. – Spokane is taking control of its fire dispatch services back from the Spokane Regional Emergency Communications Center (SREC). This decision follows concerns about the city’s influence over emergency service decisions.
Council President Betsy Wilkerson emphasized the need for Spokane to have more say on the SREC board, especially as the city handles the most calls and taxpayer dollars in the county.
“The city felt that we should have another seat at the table. And SREC said no,” Wilkerson stated.
Councilmember Paul Dillon highlighted the benefits of bringing fire dispatch in-house, pointing out that it will ensure faster and more coordinated responses between police and fire services.
“After doing ride alongs, meeting with folks on the front lines, you would often hear that, there was that delay and that disconnect between the two agencies. And so this is really helping, resolve that and I think that it’s going to be a win win, for everyone,” Dillon said.
The move will also give Spokane more control over funding, staffing and training, ensuring that tax dollars are used fairly and residents receive the service they expect.
“Fighting for the residents of Spokane being good stewards of tax dollars while also, centering public safety. This is the way forward, and, we have to do it,” added Dillon.
Regarding potential new taxpayer costs, Wilkerson mentioned that they are currently assessing the numbers. Last November’s public safety levy has already dedicated funds for the dispatch center.
“We have to find a location, equipment, hiring, training, what the budget will look like for that and how soon we can get that going. We will let the citizens know as soon as we know,” Wilkerson said.
