Livingston County Sheriff Thomas Dougherty. (File Photo/Conrad Baker)
LIVINGSTON COUNTY — The County is looking to add a new communication tower and infrastructure upgrades to improve E911 connectivity for first responders.
Livingston County Sheriff Thomas Dougherty spoke to the Public Services Committee earlier this week requesting approval for the contracts that would build the tower and improve the infrastucture at the cost of approximately $600,000.
“The funding comes through 911 surcharge money from your phone bill,” stated Sheriff Dougherty, clarifying that the revenue does not come out of the Livingston County Budget. “Over the last few years, Sheriffs from around the State as well as other groups like New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC) have fought to get this funding into our 911 centers and out of the general fund.”
The existing radio system has 95% coverage on portable street coverage which according to Sheriff Dougherty is very good for a rural landscape.
The location of the towers is yet to be determined but could potentially land in Lima, Nunda or Portage.