The Austin County Commissioners Court convened on December 9, 2024, to discuss several key agenda items, primarily focusing on the approval of a new contract for emergency dispatch services.

The meeting began with a brief acknowledgment of ongoing improvements in county programs, setting a positive tone for the discussions ahead. The first major item on the agenda was the proposed contract between Harris Fort Bend County Emergency Services District No. 100, also known as Westcom, and Austin County EMS and Fire Departments.

Walter, a representative from the EMS, presented the need for a transition in dispatch services due to increasing call volumes and operational demands. He explained that the current dispatch services provided by the sheriff's office have been in place for many years but require updates to meet the growing needs of the community. The proposed agreement with Westcom aims to enhance dispatch capabilities, including the provision of dispatcher-assisted medical assistance, which would allow dispatchers to guide callers through critical situations like CPR without transferring the call to another agency.

The contract stipulates a fee of $20 per dispatch call, with additional technology upgrade fees after the first year. Walter noted that funding for this transition had already been secured in the current budget. He emphasized that Westcom has experience working with multiple agencies and would provide dedicated dispatchers for fire and EMS services.

During the discussion, concerns were raised about the reliability of the new system and the potential impact on current dispatch operations. Walter assured the court that the transition would be seamless, with the same radio frequencies being utilized. He also highlighted the importance of training for all involved agencies, ensuring that all fire and EMS personnel would benefit from the new system.

Sheriff's comments underscored the value of the county's volunteer fire departments, acknowledging their critical role in community safety. He expressed support for the transition to Westcom, emphasizing that the decision ultimately rests with the fire and EMS departments, who are best positioned to assess the effectiveness of the new service.

After thorough discussion, a motion was made to approve the contract with Westcom. The motion received a second, and following a brief discussion confirming that all fire chiefs had been consulted, the court voted in favor of the agreement.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted a significant step forward in enhancing emergency services in Austin County, with the approval of the contract expected to improve response times and overall service quality for residents. The court's commitment to supporting both EMS and volunteer fire departments was evident, ensuring that community safety remains a top priority.