The Daily Herald has published a new article detailing the ongoing debate over outsourcing Wauconda’s 9-1-1 dispatch center. This is the third time in less than a year that residents in Wauconda are facing a contentious issue with local officials, this time concerning the potential closure of the police department’s dispatch operations and moving them to a nearby agency in Lake Zurich.
On Tuesday, Village Administrator Doug Maxeiner will present his case to the village board and the public during a community meeting scheduled for 7:15 p.m. at Wauconda High School. While no vote is expected immediately following the discussion, it could be brought up as early as March.
Before the meeting, we’ve compiled some key questions and answers regarding the proposal and its potential impact on the community.
**Q. Why is outsourcing being considered?**
A. The dispatchers are unionized and have been working without a contract since April 2013. Village officials explored outsourcing as a cost-saving measure to reduce the expenses associated with maintaining the 9-1-1 service.
**Q. How much money could be saved?**
A. According to Maxeiner, outsourcing to Lake Zurich could save the village $2.1 million over the next five years.
**Q. Is the village currently facing financial difficulties?**
A. Not at the moment, but officials warned that deficit spending could occur within the next one or two years if current trends continue.
**Q. Was this idea first proposed by Mayor Frank Bart?**
A. Bart has stated that the discussions began before he took office in May 2013. At a June 4 board meeting, he argued that running the 9-1-1 center was too costly and not sustainable, potentially saving $600,000 annually if eliminated. The idea was already in motion before Maxeiner became village administrator in November 2013, though he acknowledged it was one of the issues he inherited.
**Q. Why was Lake Zurich chosen?**
A. Maxeiner cited Lake Zurich’s professional dispatchers, their experience in handling emergencies, and their accreditation as reasons for selecting them. He also noted that they have served as backup for Wauconda for years.
**Q. Did other agencies or companies bid for the service?**
A. Officials gathered pricing information from dispatch centers in Mundelein, Fox Lake, Round Lake, and a private provider. Maxeiner also spoke directly with officials from three of these agencies. Based on cost alone, he said Lake Zurich appears to be the best option.
**Q. Will only the police department be affected?**
A. No. The Wauconda Fire Protection District, along with Lakemoor and Tower Lakes police departments, also rely on the same dispatch system. All would need to find alternative 9-1-1 providers if the plan moves forward.
**Q. What happens to the current dispatchers if the center closes?**
A. Ten full-time and two part-time dispatchers would lose their jobs.
**Q. What happens to the equipment if the village outsources?**
A. Maxeiner suggested the village might sell the equipment or negotiate its use with the new provider. Alternatively, they could keep it for future, undisclosed purposes.
**Q. Was there a promise not to outsource if voters approved a tax increase in 2010?**
A. Yes, the fire protection district’s referendum included such a pledge. However, Bart has criticized the promise, saying that circumstances have changed since 2010.
**Q. Is the decision already made?**
A. No. Maxeiner’s recommendation is just that — a suggestion. The final decision rests with the village board, which will vote on the proposal. If the vote ends in a tie, Mayor Bart would have the tie-breaking vote.
Thanks, Dan.
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