Johns Creek moves forward with 911 authority

The city of Johns Creek is taking one step further in reaching its goal of implementing a 911 center through a partnership with Sandy Springs.

City Council agreed to move forward with a joint public safety and judicial facilities authority with the city of Sandy Springs at its Oct. 27 meeting. Sandy Springs approved a similar version of the agreement last week.

The authority will seat John Kachmar, Johns Creek city manager and the Sandy Springs city manager (or his designee if he does not live in the city limits.) An operating committee will seat the police and fire chiefs from each city, respectively.

"We think this is a good way of doing it," said Kachmar.

Currently, the city of Johns Creek has an intergovernmental agreement (IGA) with Fulton County to provide 911 services. According to the city, Fulton County has not provided adequate service levels.

City Council approved the renewal of the IGA with Fulton County at its Oct. 27 meeting until a cancellation date is determined by the city manager. The renewal buys the city time until Johns Creek is ready to take over operations, possibly next summer.

The goals of the authority include specific performance goals, including 90 percent of calls answered in less than 10 seconds and 99 percent in less than 30 seconds; 90 percent of calls processed and ready for dispatch in less than 60 seconds and 99 percent in less than 90 seconds.

According to the city, the 911 authority would provide a direct oversight and control and the ability to issue revenue bonds for future facilities.

The cities must establish a 911 fund in which all 911 funds are restricted for use on the public safety answering point.

For fiscal year 2010, the total revenue projected for Johns Creek adds up to $6.8 million. Revenue is projected to decline by 0.5 percent or less through fiscal year 2013 before it begins to stabilize and increase in fiscal year 2014.

The city would most likely acquire revenue through 911 charges to land line and wireless monthly accounts.

According to city documents, the 911 center would include approximately 56 full time employees and there will be more staff than what is currently at Fulton County 911. The 911 center would be located in Sandy Springs.

Kachmar said a November 2009 start date is the goal. With the authorization of the creation of the 911 authority, the city managers will appoint the authority board and select an executive director.
- www.northfulton.com

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