COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – Branch County Board of Commissioners Chair Ted Gordon was optimistic during Tuesday’s meeting that differences over an amended E911 service plan for the county can still be worked out.
Gordon said a meeting with representatives from local municipalities from around Branch County that was held earlier in the day was productive and interesting.
Such a meeting was suggested by Coldwater City Manager Keith Baker during a public hearing two weeks ago.
There has been considerable discussion in recent weeks over a pair of plans for 911 service in Branch County.
A plan backed by the 911 Board would have all administrative and operational activities including the hiring of staff be their responsibility. It calls for the 911 Board to have the authority to expend the funds on operational objectives including the hiring of staff without receiving County Board approval once a budget is adopted.
Under a plan backed by the county, all decisions regarding the appointment and hiring, removal, compensation and duties of the 9-1-1 Coordinator and Operations Manager would be the responsibility of the Branch County Board of Commissioners including the setting of wages and fringe benefits.
The Commissioners tabled a decision on a E911 plan two weeks ago following the public hearing.
