Alamogordo City Council votes to withdraw from Taburda joint dispatch agreement

In a recent City Commission meeting held on April 22, 2025, the Alamogordo City Council addressed significant concerns regarding the dispatch services for the Alamogordo Fire Department (AFD). The discussion highlighted ongoing frustrations with the current dispatch system, which many officials believe is failing to meet the needs of the community.

The AFD has been operating under a shared dispatch system with Otero County, but officials expressed dissatisfaction with the service's efficiency and effectiveness. Chief Cunihiro and other city leaders pointed out that the dispatchers are not adequately trained for fire-related emergencies, which could jeopardize public safety. They emphasized that the current arrangement has led to delays and miscommunication during critical incidents, putting both citizens and first responders at risk.

During the meeting, it was revealed that AFD averages only 1.79 calls per day, a statistic that some officials argued does not justify the need for a dedicated dispatcher. However, others countered that the department's total calls for the fiscal year 2024 reached over 1,700, indicating a significant demand for fire services. The ongoing issues have prompted calls for the city to withdraw from the current dispatch agreement with Otero County, a move that was ultimately approved by a narrow vote of 4-3.

The decision to pull out of the Taburta dispatch agreement reflects a growing sentiment among city officials that they need more control over emergency services to ensure the safety of Alamogordo residents. The city plans to establish its own dispatch center, which would require an estimated $300,000 to set up and six months to become operational. This transition aims to enhance the responsiveness and reliability of emergency services in the community.

In addition to the dispatch concerns, the meeting also included discussions about appointments to various boards and committees, underscoring the city's commitment to engaging residents in local governance. As the city moves forward with these changes, officials are hopeful that a more localized approach to dispatch services will lead to improved outcomes for public safety in Alamogordo.