McCracken County officials briefed on $503,962 9-1-1 shortfall; phased radio switch to begin April 1

Jeff Parker, presenting the 9-1-1 board’s preliminary budget, told the McCracken County fiscal court on March 23 that proposed 2026–27 expenses rise to roughly $3.49 million from $3.34 million — a 4% increase driven by higher health‑insurance costs, site insurance, utilities and a planned $70,000 security upgrade.

“Projected revenue [is] $2,987,000,” Parker said, “shortfall of $503,962.” He asked the county to cover half of that shortfall, about $251,981, and said the city would be asked the same proposal that night.

The shortfall reflects several one‑time and recurring increases Parker spelled out for the court: a $40,000 rise in personnel health insurance, roughly $33,500 for radio site insurance for five shelter sites, $21,000 for electricity at five shelter sites, and nonrecurring security and remediation line items of about $70,000 and $75,000 respectively.

Court members pressed Parker and 9‑1‑1 staff about whether reserves or contingency lines existed to absorb the gap. Officials said there was roughly $181,000 available in income and a contingent line of $250,000 had been discussed; they also noted changes in fee collection and ordinance restructuring that could reduce future shortfalls.

County and 9‑1‑1 officials also outlined the status of a multi‑million‑dollar radio infrastructure project to replace aging systems. A 9‑1‑1 official told the court the backbone of the project is about $7 million of an approximately $10 million program once generators, propane tanks, meters and other site improvements are included. The official said law‑enforcement users will begin phasing onto the new system on April 1, with other users moved over in stages to avoid a single, simultaneous cutover.

On coverage, the presenters referenced a national planning metric of 95% coverage at a 3.2 DAQ standard and said that prior to the upgrade coverage was likely under 50% in parts of the county. Testing, including drive tests and leaf‑on tests, is under way.

Commissioners and the judge framed the project as critical infrastructure for public safety. “It’s probably one of the most important things we’ll do to protect the public and also to protect the first responders,” the presiding judge said.

The court did not take a final funding vote on March 23; the presentation closed after participants agreed to continue workshop review of the budget and consider the county’s requested contribution at a subsequent session.