Central dispatch reports rising call volume, lower overtime and schedules public assistance training

Renee Crick, director of Clinton County central dispatch, presented the department’s 2025 annual report and described operational changes the council said have reduced overtime and strengthened training.

Crick said the department dispatched 37,630 calls for service in 2025 and that total telephone call volume (including administrative calls) was 39,779, a 5% increase over 2024. She noted the center has adopted text‑to‑911 capabilities and continues to encourage residents to use the Everbridge app (formerly Nixel) for mass notifications.

"We continue to utilize texting. Of course, that is where people can text 911," Crick said, describing technology and outreach efforts. She told the council that overtime hours decreased by 72 from the department’s highest year in 2024 and credited improved hiring‑and‑testing processes and training for new dispatchers.

Crick also announced a one‑day public assistance training on April 22, 8 a.m.–4 p.m., at the Frankfort Police Department to help departments prepare for FEMA reimbursement procedures in the event of a disaster. She invited county and municipal staff, utilities, and volunteer fire departments to attend.

The council asked follow‑up questions about overtime tracking and operational integration with emergency management; Crick said the department will continue to refine training and the public assistance process.