Braxton County board approves $33,928.32 contract for school digital mapping to aid 9-1-1

The Braxton County Board of Education on Sept. 2 approved a $33,928.32 contract for a vendor to create digital floor-plan mapping of school buildings that can be accessed by 9‑1‑1 centers.

Board Chair moved the measure and the motion carried by voice vote. The board was told the mapping stems from a recent legislative requirement and that the Department of Education may provide grant funding to reimburse districts for the work.

"It puts the floor plan of the school in their 9‑1‑1 center," said a staff member involved in school safety, describing how, in an emergency, operators could use the map to direct responders to specific interior locations. The staff member also distinguished the mapping from the district’s planned E3 app, saying the app helps staff communicate with first responders while the mapping is strictly for 9‑1‑1 use.

Superintendent Dr. Kendrick told trustees the district will seek grant reimbursement for the expense and that the vendor is on an approved vendor list and will assist with grant qualifications and applications.

During discussion a board member noted a news report suggesting a potential conflict involving a person associated with the prior procurement process and a mapping business. The board member said they had "heard that on in the news," and asked whether that represented a conflict; the board recorded no formal disclosure and staff said they had no conflict in moving forward.

Trustees also asked about camera access and integration. A staff member said existing school cameras are good quality but that the district cannot give 9‑1‑1 direct access to live feeds at this time, meaning 9‑1‑1 cannot remotely view cameras unless systems or agreements are changed.

The board approved the contract with the expectation staff will pursue grant funds to offset the cost. The motion carried by voice vote.