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Choctaw County E‑911 board tables dispatcher hires amid funding shortfall
Summary
E‑911 staff sought to fill two dispatcher vacancies but the board tabled hires after commissioners warned current revenues and partner funding won’t cover ongoing salaries. Staff asked to seek funding commitments before hiring; a work session was suggested to explore options.
Choctaw County’s E‑911 board on Nov. 4 paused plans to hire two dispatchers after an extended discussion about staffing needs and a shortfall in outside funding.
Kelly, an E‑911 manager, told the board two dispatchers had left — one who passed away and one who resigned — and recommended hiring Kelly Smith and Matthew Downey immediately, proposing a starting wage of $12 an hour for one candidate and a 90‑day probationary evaluation. "I would like to hire them to start, ASAP," Kelly said.
Board members acknowledged the operational safety case for two dispatchers per shift, which the state board strongly recommends, but repeatedly warned the county lacks the revenue to sustain additional payroll. The chair said, "I don't see how we can hire people if we don't have any money to pay them," and commissioners noted that expected funding from EMS and municipal partners had been lower than budgeted.
Commission members described the county’s recent funding history: staff had anticipated $200,000 from EMS in the budget year but received $50,000, and a requested $150,000 increase remains unresolved. Municipal contributions were described as inconsistent; one commissioner observed that collecting all municipal payments still would not fully fund one additional dispatcher.
Given the uncertainty, Commissioner Cherry moved and Commissioner Jackson seconded a motion to table hiring until the next meeting so staff could pursue funding commitments and the board could consider alternatives such as shift reassignments or further budget adjustments. The motion carried on a voice vote. Kelly said she would continue recruiting and follow up on municipal commitments and contract status.
What’s next: The board directed staff to seek clearer funding pledges and suggested a work session to explore budget options prior to considering hires. No hires were made at the Nov. 4 meeting.
