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New dispatch center in Will County creates controversey
In recent developments from the Chicago Tribune, tensions are running high among various law enforcement and emergency services agencies in Will County over the county's decision to construct a consolidated dispatch center in eastern Will County. This $5 million initiative aims to combine operations from several agencies under the Sheriff’s Office, sparking a debate over fairness and resource allocation.
The Bolingbrook Village Board recently passed a resolution expressing their dissatisfaction with what they describe as an unfair advantage given to eastern Will County agencies. They argue that if the county is investing in a new dispatch center for some agencies, it should extend similar support to others. The Bolingbrook Public Safety Director, Tom Ross, emphasized that their concerns revolve around taxpayer responsibility and ensuring equitable treatment for all areas within the county.
On the flip side, Will County officials defend their actions as a move towards efficient governance. They draw parallels between this project and typical county investments in infrastructure, such as road maintenance, where certain regions may receive more attention than others. State mandates also play a role here; Will County must comply with a requirement to reduce its number of dispatch centers from six to three.
The proposed consolidation will see WESCOM and the City of Joliet maintaining their existing centers, while the remaining entities will be integrated into the new facility at Laraway Road and Route 52. This new hub will also house administrative offices for the county’s 911 board. Agencies currently serviced by WESCOM, which covers 21 police and fire departments including Bolingbrook to Wilmington, have incurred significant costs. These agencies took on a $5.1 million bond over 20 years to establish their current dispatch center back in 2014.
Other municipalities, like Lockport, are contemplating resolutions to address these inequities. Lockport Police Chief Terry Lemming supports the idea of consolidation for efficiency but remains concerned about local taxpayers footing the bill for facilities elsewhere. Similarly, the Homer Township Fire District plans to adopt a stance akin to Bolingbrook's, hoping to prompt a response from county leaders.
Meanwhile, EASCOM’s director, Crete Mayor Mike Einhorn, argues that expecting equal funding across the board sets a problematic precedent. He points out that county funds are already allocated unevenly for various projects, such as road maintenance, and suggests that expecting complete parity might not be practical.
Despite these challenges, there are signs of potential shifts. Some agencies, like those in Braidwood, are considering transitioning to the new center, though discussions are ongoing to address their reservations. Even if they switch, they remain liable for their share of WESCOM’s outstanding debt.
Looking ahead, the coming months will likely bring more clarity as county officials deliberate further on these issues. While consolidation promises improved coordination, it continues to spark discussions about fairness and fiscal responsibility, leaving many agencies and communities weighing their options carefully.