(KNZA)--Sheriff Tim Morse announces that the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office is pleased to announce the installation of our new 911 system by Centurylink.   The new system replaces the original 911 system that was purchased and installed for Jackson County in 1993.  The prior equipment was aging and failing.  It was necessary to replace the equipment as soon as possible, but the funds were just not available.  However, the Sheriff’s Office partnered with County Fire Department and the Jackson County Emergency Management Office to find grant funding to take care of this need.  A total of $482,000 was obtained through the process through a FEMA grant.  The grant provides for a new and updated 911 system with a sophisticated mapping system.  This system will aid in reducing delays in locating those who are in need of help.  The system also will feature the Aurora System which provides detailed statistics on all calls.  This will help in planning staffing during the busiest times and also provides an internal audit/training tool.  In addition, the grant provides for radio dispatching equipment and furniture, as well as a generator that will support the 911 center.  Also, improvements will be made to the county wide radio communication system that supports fire and ems personnel.  

Additional equipment will be installed during the first two weeks in August. The new generator system will be installed later in the summer.

“This is another example of the benefits Jackson County can receive by having all agencies working together for the good of our community.”