Christian County Fiscal Court Approves Backup 911 Call Center

The new off-site facility will serve as a redundancy for the primary 911 call center.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 9:15pm

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Christian County Fiscal Court has unanimously approved the reimbursement of an off-site backup 911 and emergency call center. The new facility will function the same as the primary call center, but will serve as a redundancy with easier and more professional transitions. The backup center will be located at the new fire station on Walton Way and will be tested regularly.

Why it matters

Having a backup 911 call center is crucial for ensuring public safety and maintaining uninterrupted emergency services, especially in the event of a disaster or other disruption at the primary facility. This move by the Fiscal Court helps strengthen the county's emergency response capabilities.

The details

The backup 911 and emergency call center will be funded initially through E-911 funds, according to Magistrate Phillip Peterson. ECC Director Sarah Dragoo said the new facility will be tested at least once a month with 24-hour shifts so that equipment can be regularly checked and dispatchers can become familiar with the space.

  • The Fiscal Court unanimously approved the backup call center on Thursday, January 30, 2026.
  • The backup center will be located at the new fire station on Walton Way.

The players

Phillip Peterson

Magistrate for Christian County Fiscal Court.

Sarah Dragoo

Director of the Christian County Emergency Communications Center (ECC).

Jerry Gilliam

Judge-Executive of Christian County.

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What they’re saying

“E-911 funds would initially pay for the plan, and called it 'a need' for the area.”

— Phillip Peterson, Magistrate

“This would function the same as the primary — but would serve as redundancy with much easier and more professional transitions.”

— Sarah Dragoo, ECC Director

“At least once a month, it will be in use for a 24-hour shift — so that equipment can regularly be tested, and so that new and veteran dispatchers understand the functionality of the space.”

— Sarah Dragoo, ECC Director

What’s next

The judge-executive said the new backup 911 call center will be funded through E-911 funds, which have strict parameters that must be met before being allocated.

The takeaway

This move by the Christian County Fiscal Court to establish a redundant 911 call center demonstrates their commitment to public safety and ensuring uninterrupted emergency services for the community, even in the event of a disruption at the primary facility.