Umatilla County honors 911 communications accreditation; county leaders praise staff

The Umatilla County Board of Commissioners on June 17 recognized the county’s 911 communications center for earning its first accreditation, the board heard.

Scott Hayes, executive director of the Northwest Accreditation Alliance, told commissioners the center met 56 communication standards based on national best practices and relevant Oregon statutes and administrative code. “Accreditation is one step towards building community trust,” Hayes said, congratulating Captain Karen Primer and Lieutenant Justin Russell for preparing the agency for review.

Under Sheriff Jim Littlefield introduced Hayes and said the accreditation is part of a multi‑year goal to have the sheriff’s office evaluated by an independent organization. Hayes said re‑accreditation will occur in three years and that the alliance evaluates centers on policies, procedures and demonstrated compliance with legal and professional standards.

Commissioners and attendees praised the work of dispatch staff. Chair noted the accreditation as a “big accomplishment for the staff” and asked the county to display the plaque in a public space.

The ceremony was part of the meeting’s awards and recognitions section; no formal board action was required beyond the recognition and public remarks. The board moved on to other agenda items after congratulating the communications team.

The accreditation presentation provides the county a documented standard to support future training and grant applications; the alliance represents groups including the Oregon State Sheriff’s Association and Association of Public Safety Communication Officials.