DuComm celebrates 50 years of public safety service with text to 911 launch

DuPage County celebrated a significant milestone at the Board Meeting on April 8, 2025, marking the 50th anniversary of the DuPage Public Safety Communications (DUCOM). The meeting highlighted the vital role DUCOM plays in public safety, serving as the largest consolidated dispatch center in Illinois and processing over one million calls annually.

Chair Deborah A. Conroy led the recognition, emphasizing DUCOM's unwavering commitment to providing essential emergency services. "Their professionalism, focus, and compassion are the foundation of DuPage County's emergency response system," she stated, acknowledging the critical link DUCOM creates between 911 callers and emergency responders.

The meeting also introduced a groundbreaking advancement: the launch of the "Text to 911" service. This initiative aims to enhance accessibility for those unable to make voice calls during emergencies. A poignant example shared during the meeting involved a seven-year-old child who used the text service to report a domestic violence situation, demonstrating the life-saving potential of this new feature.

Mayor Brummell, who has been involved with DUCOM for two decades, praised the organization for its efficiency and dedication. "What an incredible organization that operates 99.9% of the time behind the scenes," he remarked, highlighting the importance of recognizing the telecommunicators who work tirelessly to ensure public safety.

In addition to celebrating DUCOM's achievements, the meeting addressed the county's response to recent flooding in Southern Illinois, showcasing DuPage's commitment to mutual aid and community support.

As DUCOM embarks on its next chapter, the county remains dedicated to enhancing emergency services, ensuring that help is always within reach for its residents.