Inter-county Agreement Increases 9-1-1 Connection Reliability and Saves Money

Franklin County entered into a grant agreement with the Commonwealth of PA/PA Emergency Management Agency for statewide interconnectivity funding. In May, Franklin County adopted an ordinance authorizing the intergovernmental agreement to establish the South Central Intercounty Communications Network (SCICNet), a regional radio system which includes Adams, Dauphin and Franklin Counties.

“This collaboration of counties provides significant cost savings and results in a better, more reliable communications system,” said Franklin County Commissioner Chairman Dave Keller.

By partnering, the counties reduce the overall cost of ownership, lease payment and annual maintenance for shared components. This collaboration is expected to save Franklin County $1.3 million over seven years. Other counties are considering joining the network which would increase cost savings.

The Franklin County Department of Emergency Services provided an update to the Board of Commissioners on the progress of the system. Franklin County Director of Emergency Services John Thierwechter stated that the grant funding for $154,000 will cover annual maintenance expenses. He explained that SCICNet increases resiliency and redundancy for the county’s 9-1-1 system so that connections are not lost in the event of a power outage.

“9-1-1 users will not see a difference. It’s just more efficient,” said Franklin County Commissioner Bob Thomas.

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