Chemung County Legislator Rodney J. Strange spent an 8 hour shift at the Chemung County 911 Communications Center with County Communications Operators on Memorial Day evening.
Strange began his shift at 4 pm and stayed until midnight.
Strange began an effort earlier this year to learn more about the jobs that county employees do and to experience hands-on what it takes to do the job and do it well.
“As a county legislator, I am asked to vote on items that effect every aspect of county government. We spend millions of dollars every year on equipment, supplies, salaries and benefits that affect every job in the county. It is my responsibilty and job to know as much about these positions and roles as I can to make the best decisions as a legislator. By spending time directly learning the jobs from those individuals who do them every day, helps me when we talk about specific items that come before the legislature for discussion and a vote,” Strange said.
Strange sat with all five dispatchers during his 8 hour shift to learn what each 911 station handles specific types of calls and how the operation works. Each station is reponsible for specific agencies within the county.
Sheriff, State Police, Town of Elmira
City Police
City Fire
County Fire (outside city) and Ambulance
Elmira Heights/Horseheads
“The time I spent at 911 was an incredible experience. The talent and ability of our dispatchers is beyond words. I am so grateful to have had this time with them. I look forward to returning and gaining even more knowledge because every second something new can happen. When that phone rings these amazing people can become someones lifeline between life and death. You just never know from one minute to the next.”