MOTOROLA FLEX:  We went live with Motorola Flex in September of 2022.  Throughout 2024 we continued to work with Motorola identifying issues, bringing interfaces online, implementing a reporting system and going live with the the Iowa System/NCIC state interface.  We continue to work with Motorola as issues arise with the new software and meet internally bi-weekly to discuss ongoing issues.

SCHOOL SAFETY:  The Governor of the State of Iowa implemented many school safety initiatives that connect directly to the dispatch center. Schools that chose to participate now have a school safety radio in their facility where they have direct access to the dispatch center should an active assailant/active shooter incident occur. Schools were also mapped extensively providing the dispatch enter with detailed maps and any wireless 911 calls that come from within the school are actively mapped using the Rapid SOS application. Staff has worked extensively with the schools to make sure they are trained to use the radio and understand how 911 staff and emergency responders will respond.

CALEA ACCREDITATION:  The Communications Center was evaluated during our year 2 web-based review in November of 2023 and received positive feedback with no issues identified. Files were reviewed online, and phone interviews were conducted with several employees. We will have another web-based assessment in November of 2024 and our site- based assessment in July of 2025.

STAFFING/RECRUITMENT: 6 new hires began employment in 2024; we continue to see more turnover than previous years and continue to work with Human Resources to fill positions quickly.  The job description for Communications Operator was updated so that the minimum qualifications required are not eliminating any applicants early in the process.