Fayette County commissioners formally recognized the county 9-1-1 center for its role in emergency response and for assisting during a gubernatorial visit on Oct. 3. Commissioners said 9-1-1 director McMullen and staff members Bertha Blankenship, Sarah Vaughn and Paul Morris provided critical support that enabled the governor’s staff to reach a press location after a nearby turnpike crash and also delivered a wireless hotspot so the governor’s staff could communicate with the press.

At the meeting the commission read from a prepared letter thanking the 9-1-1 center for facilitating safe and efficient travel for the governor and for their broader emergency responses. A commissioner noted the center “went above and beyond” during a hectic day that also included a catastrophic crash on the turnpike and other calls. The letter singled out the staff members by name for their contributions.

Commissioners also thanked first responders more broadly for their work at recent events, including Bridge Day, where officials said responders dealt with injuries and high-risk rescue scenarios. The recognition followed earlier public comments praising the county’s emergency services for their speed and coordination.

No formal actions or budget allocations were attached to the recognition; commissioners said they would deliver a formal letter of appreciation to the 9-1-1 center and to the governor’s staff’s local contacts.