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E-911 board launches budget-advertising for automated voice dispatch system after revised bids
Summary
After reviewing vendor bids that ranged from $129,328.25 down to $74,306 depending on options, the Montezuma County E-911 Board moved to start a budget amendment posting for up to $74,306 for an automated voice dispatch system intended to speed initial dispatches and standardize alerts across seven fire/EMS agencies.
The Montezuma County E-911 Board voted on March 2 to begin the 14-day budget-advertising process for an automated voice dispatch system, authorizing staff to prepare a budget amendment of up to $74,306 to fund implementation if the backup dispatch-center option is removed.
Laurie Johnson told the board the county received one initial bid for the automated voice dispatching system at $129,328.25. After clarifications and removal of unrequested items (including 17 voice-alert licenses that appeared per station), Johnson said the vendor revised the quote to $106,303 and that removing the backup dispatch center would reduce the one-time implementation price to about $74,306.
Rick, who participated in the bid review, described the system as "basically a computerized voice that dispatches the calls" and said it would reduce dispatch processing time by ‘‘30 seconds at a minimum,” enabling responders to leave more quickly and allowing dispatchers to spend more time obtaining caller information. Rick said the system would cover five fire districts, EMS, and Rico (seven total fire/EMS agencies) and that "every one of them" expressed interest.
The board discussed annual fees and CAD-integration charges; Johnson and others noted the one-time implementation is separate from ongoing annual costs (which were described during the meeting as roughly $5,500–$7,000 depending on interfaces). The board agreed to post the budget adjustment for at least 14 days, then return to the E-911 Board for a hearing and formal vote on the amendment.
Board members emphasized justification to taxpayers — one commissioner noted fire and EMS represent about 15% of call volume and asked how the board would explain spending from 9-1-1 funds; staff said the system also benefits law enforcement and improves overall dispatch efficiency during high-volume incidents.
A motion to start the budget amendment/posting process for $74,306 was moved, seconded and approved by voice vote; staff will post the amendment and return with a hearing.
