City Partners With Edina For 911 Dispatch Services
10-01-2010
Starting in 2011, Golden Valley’s new 911 dispatch provider will be the City of Edina. Both City Councils approved the agreement at their Sept 7 meetings.
Golden Valley’s decision to change dispatch providers is a cost-saving issue, explains City Manager Tom Burt. The City has contracted 911 dispatch services through the City of St Louis Park since 1994. Costs for 2010 are $305,000 and have been as high as $337,000 in other years. Golden Valley gave notice to terminate the dispatch agreement with St Louis Park effective Jan 1, 2011.
The City first approached Hennepin County as a potential dispatch provider in 2008. Hennepin County provides dispatching services for 23 law enforcement agencies and 19 fire departments at no cost. Like all county residents, Golden Valley residents already pay for dispatch services through their property taxes to Hennepin County. In May 2010, the Hennepin County Board denied Golden Valley’s request, and City officials began taking bids from dispatch service providers in nearby cities or counties.
Golden Valley will pay Edina a one-time $25,000 administrative fee, annual charges of $178,140, and will contribute to technology and staff upgrades. Even with those costs, Golden Valley will save up to $100,000 a year.
It’s a good business decision for Golden Valley, says Police Chief Stacy Altonen, adding that residents and business can expect a seamless changeover with no impact on service levels.
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