Committee highlights NextGen 9-1-1 progress, GIS dataset completion and staffing pressures

Speakers told attendees that Colorado continues work toward full NextGen 9-1-1 implementation and that a key GIS milestone has been reached: a completed statewide PSAP boundary dataset is now available for the vendor selected from the RFP process to refine. "This is a huge step for Colorado," Jennifer (staff member) said, crediting the resource center board and the GIS committee.

Presenters listed other statewide technology projects that affect PSAPs: adding NextGen core services to the ESINET, console and CAD upgrades, radio-console replacement (some PSAPs use Motorola MCC 7500-series equipment that is being phased out), translation services for non-English calls and texts, emergency notification language requirements (referenced in Senate Bill 31), and cybersecurity defenses as PSAPs become portal points to ESINET. Jackie warned that weak cybersecurity at one PSAP could compromise the network for others.

Speakers also emphasized staffing and training constraints. Jennifer said hiring and training new dispatchers takes substantial time: "How long does that take? That takes a long time," she said, and urged PSAPs to describe recruitment, retention and training timelines when meeting legislators. The group noted ECATS and other staffing-forecast tools can be used to quantify staffing shortfalls, though some attendees said the forecasts are uncomfortable to review.

Discussion-only items included which technology projects are statewide versus local and which projects require vendor or PUC approvals. Speakers encouraged PSAPs to highlight their specific local upgrades when meeting legislators and to document IT-maintenance needs and staffing costs so lawmakers can see how much of operations are not covered by 9-1-1 surcharge revenues. No formal votes were taken.