Funding for project will enhance public safety, better use tax dollars
LANSING — During budget negotiations, state Sen. Sylvia Santana (D-Detroit) and Rep. Abdullah Hammoud (D-Dearborn) were able to secure $1.25 million in state funding to improve the consolidated 911 dispatch center, which will enhance communication and public safety in the region.
“It is so important that we keep public safety a priority in this state budget, and I was glad to see that crucial, $1.25 million in funding for the people of Dearborn, Melvindale, Garden City, Inkster, Wayne and Westland for a consolidated dispatch center in Dearborn remained intact,” Sen. Santana said. “Our constituents deserve to get the emergency help they need in the most efficient manner possible. This dedicated money is the culmination of my request of the Appropriations Chair to come to Dearborn to understand the synergy of communities working together, and through our continuous conversations, the funds were secured.”
Currently, when someone calls 911 for an emergency, they are connected a dispatcher who takes all their information and then alerts first responders. A consolidated dispatch center, which Dearborn City Council members voted unanimously for in March, could offer assistance to more than just the person calling in the emergency.
“Providing the necessary resources to our first responders is integral to creating a safer community for our families,” said Hammoud. “We are proud to have worked with city and state leaders on this proposal, utilizing the latest technologies while also using resources more effectively and efficiently. A safer community is a better community, and securing additional funding for the dispatch center is a major step forward for Dearborn and its neighboring cities. We are committed to prioritizing the public safety and health of our community members.”
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