County approves one-year interlocal agreement for 911 dispatch; splits governance between executive and advisory boards

Decatur County commissioners voted to approve a one-year interlocal agreement with the city to continue joint operation and funding of the county’s public safety answering point (PSAP), commonly known as the 911 dispatch center.

Brian, the presenter, told the board the agreement closely mirrors previous arrangements but clarifies governance: an executive committee consisting of the mayor, a commissioner, and two council members will handle high-level budgetary and personnel decisions, while a seven-member advisory board will address day-to-day operational matters and meet monthly or bimonthly. The county will continue to own the building and employ the dispatchers, while budgetary raises and major expenses will be shared approximately 50/50 with the city.

Brian said the agreement was limited to one year because of uncertainties tied to state changes in local taxation and revenues and recommended revisiting the contract next year. He also said county and city attorneys have reviewed the document and a consultant who assisted on the revision has done similar work elsewhere.

The board discussed committee membership and tie-breaking procedures for the executive committee; Brian said the executive committee is intended for larger, non‑day‑to‑day decisions and that day‑to‑day matters would remain with the advisory board. Commissioners approved the one-year agreement by voice vote.

The vote does not obligate the county beyond adopting the agreement language; the presenter noted the interlocal still requires signatures from both governing bodies and that staff would ensure legal review and execution steps are completed.