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Dispatch technology briefing: Owensboro highlights CAD, text-to-911 and mapping tools
Summary
City dispatch staff demonstrated the computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system, Smart911/what3words location tools, CAD-to-CAD transfers, text-to-911 capability and redundancy plans; presenters said average dispatch times get EMS/fire moving in about 40 seconds and reported roughly 14,493 medical-response calls last year.
Paul Nade, a dispatch official, briefed the commission on Owensboro’s CAD and 911 systems, showing how mapping, CAD-to-CAD transfers and text-to-911 work together to speed responses and support multiple agencies.
Nade explained that automated dispatching and CAD transfers reduce delays, that Smart911/what3words and detailed parcel-level mapping help locate callers in fields or on trails, and described redundancy across three communications towers to preserve service during infrastructure outages. He noted the city was among the first in the commonwealth to support two-way text-to-911 and reported about 14,493 calls resulting in medical responses last year. He also explained why the city discontinued a reverse-911 product as landline service declined and citizens did not adopt registration features.
Commissioners and residents praised dispatchers’ work and shared personal accounts of timely responses. The presentation underscored technology investments (sirens, 800 MHz migration, AreaVac helipad coordination) that support emergency response and public safety.
