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Taos County formally recognizes 9‑1‑1 telecommunicators as first responders
Summary
The commission approved Resolution 2026‑7 recognizing public‑safety telecommunicators as first responders and critical infrastructure, with county 9‑1‑1 leadership urging state legislative coordination to secure retirement and personnel benefits.
The Taos County Commission unanimously approved Resolution 2026‑7 on Jan. 14 recognizing public‑safety telecommunicators (dispatchers) as first responders and critical infrastructure.
Roberto Saragosa, Taos County’s 9‑1‑1 director, told the commission that dispatchers perform life‑safety work "above and beyond clerical" duties and deserve recognition that supports recruitment, retention and potential retirement benefits. "Clerical doesn't begin to describe the job description that my people do," Saragosa said, urging county support for statewide measures.
Commissioners discussed how recognition could be a first step toward changes in retirement benefits and classification that mirror other states. One commissioner noted the potential to move telecommunicators into an enhanced Public Employees Retirement Association (PERA) tier that would allow earlier retirement for long‑tenured dispatchers.
The resolution passed after discussion of next steps, including coordinating with state legislators and county representatives to support statutory change. County staff said they would continue outreach and seek copies of relevant legislation for the commission and local stakeholders.
What’s next: Staff and commissioners said they will continue conversations with legislators and state PERA representatives to evaluate feasibility and fiscal impacts of benefit changes for telecommunicators.
