Wauconda investigates outsourcing the 9-1-1 call center (more)
The Daily Herald recently published an update regarding the ongoing discussions about outsourcing the Wauconda 9-1-1 Center. This issue has sparked significant debate among residents and village officials, reigniting tensions over how best to manage local resources.
For the third time in less than a year, Wauconda finds itself embroiled in a contentious issue that pits concerned citizens against the village administration. This latest dispute centers around the proposal to close the police department's dispatch center and outsource the service to neighboring Lake Zurich. On Tuesday evening, Village Administrator Doug Maxeiner will address both the board and the community during a session scheduled for 7:15 p.m. at Wauconda High School. While no immediate vote is planned, this meeting serves as a critical step toward understanding the potential implications of such a move.
Village officials have been exploring ways to cut costs, particularly concerning the operation of the dispatch center, which has been without a contract for dispatchers since April 2013 due to union negotiations. As part of these efforts, the possibility of outsourcing has emerged as a viable option to reduce expenses. According to Maxeiner, contracting with Lake Zurich could result in savings of $2.1 million over five years.
Although the village isn't currently facing financial difficulties, officials warn that deficit spending may become unavoidable within the next couple of years. Mayor Frank Bart has expressed concerns about the sustainability of maintaining the current 911 center, suggesting that eliminating the service could save approximately $600,000 annually. Bart emphasized that the initial inquiries into outsourcing predate his tenure, beginning even before he assumed office in May 2013. However, Maxeiner, who began his role as village administrator in November 2013, acknowledges inheriting this project among others.
When selecting Lake Zurich as the potential provider, Maxeiner highlighted their reputation for professionalism and efficiency in handling emergency situations. Additionally, the Lake Zurich dispatch center operates under an accredited police department and has long served as Wauconda's backup system. Village leaders also considered bids from other municipalities like Mundelein, Fox Lake, and Round Lake, along with a private company offering similar services. Ultimately, Lake Zurich appeared to offer the most cost-effective solution.
It's important to note that outsourcing wouldn't affect only the Wauconda Police Department; the Wauconda Fire Protection District and neighboring law enforcement agencies such as Lakemoor and Tower Lakes would need to find alternative 911 providers if the proposal moves forward. Approximately ten full-time and two part-time dispatchers currently employed by the village would likely lose their jobs. Regarding the future of the dispatch center and its equipment, there are several possibilities, including selling the assets, negotiating shared usage agreements, or repurposing them for undisclosed future uses.
Residents may recall that during the 2010 referendum to increase taxes for the fire protection district, assurances were given that dispatch services wouldn't be outsourced. Mayor Bart has since publicly questioned the validity of those commitments, arguing that circumstances have changed significantly since then. Furthermore, while Maxeiner's recommendation leans toward outsourcing, the final decision rests with the six-member village board. Should the vote result in a deadlock (3-3), Mayor Bart would hold the decisive vote.
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