Norton authorizes application for up to $350,000 PSAP resiliency grant and proclaims 911 Telecommunicators Week

Norton City Council unanimously authorized the Norton Police Department to apply for a Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) Resiliency Grant of up to $350,000 and adopted a resolution recognizing April 12–18, 2026, as National Public Safety (911) Telecommunicators Week.

The city manager, Jeffery A. Shupe, told council the grant program is 100% funded with no local match but that the state appropriation had not been finalized; staff asked for authorization so the city could move quickly should funding become available. Assistant Police Chief Greg Mays and Dispatch Supervisor Suzanne Stacy described equipment nearing the end of its life after the dispatch center’s 15 years of use and outlined proposed replacements and upgrades the grant would cover. The grant application was prepared by Dispatch Supervisor Suzanne Stacy; staff also met with building landlord Fred Ramey Jr. for input on equipment and estimates.

Why it matters: the requested funds would allow the city to replace aging consoles and other critical dispatch hardware and software that support 911 operations. City administration was authorized to sign all grant documents if the program opens and appropriation is confirmed.

Council also adopted a proclamation recognizing National Public Safety (911) Telecommunicators Week and heard staff plans to honor dispatch staff with jackets, vendor-donated items and meals. Assistant Police Chief Mays said the dispatchers provide “lifeline” services to police, fire and rescue and described the week’s planned recognitions. Dispatcher Ryan Dorton modeled a commemorative polo shirt designed by Suzanne Stacy for the VA250 anniversary.

Next steps: Norton staff will file the application if and when the VDEM grant process is reopened and will execute grant documents as authorized by council. The proclamation was adopted by unanimous vote.