County approves new dispatch CAD integration and iPads for ambulances

Jefferson County supervisors approved joining a new computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system and authorized procuring tablets for ambulance crews on May 27.

S6 explained the county dispatch is migrating to an Oracle CAD solution and proposed equipping each ambulance with an iPad, plus a base monitor. The initial implementation covers a three-year service cycle with an upfront cost presented during the meeting; S6 indicated the county has budgeted for the purchase within information-technology hardware. S10 clarified the CAD is a software and information system to manage calls, track rigs and share status updates — it does not replace radio communications.

Board members discussed whether the system will later integrate fire departments countywide; S10 said fire departments were not included in the current implementation plan but could be added in the future. The board moved and approved the purchase. The decision authorizes staff to proceed with the initial procurement and implementation under the dispatch plan; cost and renewal terms will be reviewed in future budget cycles.

S6 said the system will allow dispatchers to share location and incident information with partner agencies and track ambulance statuses more effectively. The board approved the motion by voice vote; no roll-call tally was recorded in the transcript.