Heath Police Department implements direct alarm notifications to improve response times

The Rockwall County Commissioners Court Workshop Meeting held on June 9, 2025, focused on enhancing the efficiency of alarm response systems for law enforcement. The primary agenda item was the introduction of a new software system that would allow alarm monitoring companies to send notifications directly to law enforcement vehicles, bypassing traditional call centers.

The discussion began with a presentation on how the new system would streamline the process of receiving alarm notifications. Currently, alarms are processed through call centers, which can delay response times significantly—sometimes taking up to 20 minutes. The proposed system aims to reduce this time by allowing alarms to be transmitted directly to deputies' vehicles, ensuring quicker responses to potential emergencies.

Commissioners expressed concerns about the implications of eliminating the call center as a filtering mechanism. One commissioner noted that while the new system could improve response times, it might also lead to an increase in unnecessary dispatches for false alarms. The sheriff's office currently responds to all alarm calls, regardless of prior verification, which some commissioners felt could lead to an increased workload for deputies.

The conversation also touched on the issue of false alarms and whether the county has a policy in place to charge homeowners for repeated false alarms. A former mayor of Heath shared his experience with a residence that had over 50 false alarms in a year, suggesting that implementing fines after a certain number of false alarms could deter misuse of alarm systems.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the costs associated with the new system. The initial implementation would require a one-time expenditure of approximately $20,530, along with an annual maintenance fee of around $1,600. Commissioners weighed the potential benefits of improved response times against the financial implications, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to public safety and budgetary constraints.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the county's commitment to enhancing emergency response capabilities while addressing the challenges posed by false alarms and resource allocation. Further discussions and decisions regarding the implementation of the new system are expected in future meetings.