WASHINGTON COUNTY APPROVED BUDGET
FY 2026
911 Communications - Department 11440
Department Description/Function
The Department of Emergency Communications processes both emergency and non-emergency requests for service. Coordinates communications, resources and supports the County’s Fire Departments, Emergency Medical Services System, Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Hagerstown Police Department, Local Municipal Law Enforcement Agencies and the Emergency Management Office.
Goals Fiscal Year 2026
Install a new backup radio system in the primary 911 communications center allowing access to Maryland State’s radio system during a county outage. Recruit and continue retention of employees to maintain adequate staffing. Increase collaboration with law enforcement, fire departments, emergency medical services, and emergency management to improve best practices and training. Complete an assessment of the Emergency Communications Center with mission critical partners to focus on improving efficiency and overall public safety capabilities. Establish a program for monthly checks of all equipment at the back-up Primary Safety Answering Point (PSAP). This is needed to ensure all updates are performed on all CAD driven computers. Start planning and design process for the construction of a new Emergency Management Communications center at the recently purchased County building on Western Maryland Parkway.
Accomplishments Fiscal Year 2025
Completed exercises to utilize the back-up PSAP. This will ensure that all staff are familiar with equipment as well as the facility. Implemented an in-house academy program for new dispatchers. Completed a new boiler installation for the dispatch center. Revitalized the public education and awareness program for Emergency Communications.
Created a Dispatcher and Supervisor of the Year program. Designed and implemented a new department logo.
2026 Budget Document
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