Discussions Continue On MCEMC And E911 Board Merger

The Mahaska County Emergency Management Commission at their April 21st meeting.

Oskaloosa, Iowa – The Emergency Management Commission met Tuesday evening to discuss reaching out to the current E911 Board with the possibility of consolidating the two entities.

The commission passed a resolution to formally send a letter to the E911 Board thanking them for attending the joint meeting on April 14, 2015 where information was exchanged in regards to the possible merger of the two organizations.

In a letter sent to the E911 Board, “MCEMC would like to further explore the possibility of consolidation and/or shared management of our two organizations. We propose that MCEMC develop a draft 28E agreement for consideration. MCEMC would pay the cost of any expenses related to development of the 28E.”

The MCEMC Board, which is comprised of an elected official from every incorporated entity in the county, agreed to form a committee to work with the E911 Board and/or a committee from that entity to further develop the merger if the E911 board chooses to move forward at its next meeting.

Also approved by the MCEMC was the resolution that transferred ownership of storm siren equipment from the City of Oskaloosa to Mahaska County Emergency Management. This transfer is in accordance with Iowa Code Section 29C.13(2).

Currently, the sirens are activated by the 911 Center in accordance to the standards that are set by the National Weather Service to meet the criteria of a Severe Thunderstorm or Tornado Warning. That policy will continue to be in place after the July 1st transfer date.

Also passed was a resolution allowing the Emergency Manager Director to work in roles outside of that of Emergency Manager. This would facilitate the current and future directors to participate in such functions as reserve firefighter, paramedic or any other role, as long as it doesn’t interfere with their primary duty.