COBB COUNTY, Ga. — Austell residents calling 911 can now expect their calls to be answered by Cobb County 911 emergency communications professionals.
The county's Department of Emergency Communications (DEC) assumed control of emergency communications and dispatch services from the City of Austell on Wednesday, according to a release. This comes after the move was approved by the Cobb County Board of Commissioners.
Cobb DEC Director Melissa Alterio said that residents should not notice the transition.
"We are honored to extend our services to the Austell community and welcome the Austell Police and Fire departments as our public safety partners," Alterio said.
In addition to receiving calls, Cobb DEC will get the revenue the City of Austell collected from a state distribution of 911 funds, as the city collected approximately $200,000 in 911 fees in 2023.
The county said that adding Austell's 10,000 calls yearly to its more than 900,000 call volume should not significantly affect emergency operations and that residents should be assured their calls will be handled efficiently.