The existing funding mechanism, which relies on landline telephone fees, has become outdated and no longer aligns with the way people communicate in the digital age. Currently, the county imposes a 2% monthly fee on landline phone users. However, technological advancements have led to a shift in communication patterns, with more residents relying on mobile devices for emergency calls. To address this disparity, the proposed change would introduce a flat fee of $1 per month for cellular phone users.
County Auditor Vic Hurlburt, a long-time advocate for this change, stressed the need for this update, citing a recent audit conducted in May this year, which underscored the financial shortfall in landline fee revenue. Notably, Clay County has been absorbing a staggering $1 million annually from its general revenue fund to bridge the deficit in funding for the regional 911 system. The shift to a mobile device fee structure is expected to eliminate the need for these subsidies and ensure financial stability for the 911 dispatch service.
Under the new funding model, any surplus revenue generated will be strictly earmarked for covering 911 dispatch expenses as a dedicated fund. To guarantee the fund's responsible management, Commissioner [Your Name]'s office has committed to conducting regular audits to ensure that it is utilized exclusively for 911 emergency services.
In addressing the importance of Proposition A, the undeniable shift in how citizens reach out to 911 services, predominantly using their cell phones. The proposal reflects a timely and necessary update to an outdated law.
As the community eagerly awaits the upcoming vote, The County Commission is committed to educating the public and voters about the implications and benefits of Proposition A for the 911 Subscriber Fee. The proposed change is seen as a crucial step in aligning the county's emergency services with the current technological landscape and securing the financial stability of the 911 dispatch system.
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