Briefing: Public Safety Programs
At a recent regionalization conference at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Lt. Gov. Timothy Murray awarded $7.96 million to communities across the state that are developing public safety programs to enhance 911 and emergency dispatch communications centers, improve public safety and save money for taxpayers.
What are the details of the projects?
The grants, which were distributed by the State 911 Department and the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, will fund 12 projects that include the construction of new facilities, the purchase and installation of new equipment, the improvement of infrastructure of existing regional 911 communications departments and feasibility studies for regionalizing emergency communications services.
Where is the money coming from?
The grant fund was established a year ago when Gov. Deval Patrick signed a law establishing the State 911 Department. At that time he created a fund to pay for enhanced training, equipment upgrades and the creation of incentives to regionalize 911 operations.
Are there any restrictions involved?
Under state and federal law, the funds given to communities can only be used to support the 911 and emergency communications systems.
How is Central Massachusetts affected?
Devens, Harvard and Shirley were awarded $500,000 for construction and equipment purposes. Franklin will see a portion of a $150,000 grant for equipment purchases and installation. And the following communities will divvy up a total of $100,000 for feasibility studies: Ashburnham, Ashby, Barre, Berlin, Boylston, Fitchburg, Holden, Hubbardston, Lancaster, Lunenburg, Oakham, Phillipston, Princeton, Rutland, Shirley, Sterling, Templeton, West Boylston and Winchendon.
How else were communities affected?
The regional conference held at Holy Cross featured presentations from planners and municipal officials who already have implemented regionalization plans successfully. Participants at the conference received template contracts, budgets and agreements to bring back to their communities and apply at the local level. In a press release, Department of Revenue Commissioner Navjeet K. Bal said the conference allowed lessons and experiences to be shared with cities and towns that must provide critical services with fewer financial resources.
Click here to read more about the public safety programs.
Click here to see which communities are receiving funds and for what purposes.
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