LACIE SILVA
Writer
The Bedford County Commission has unanimously approved a loan of up to $5 million to finance the construction of a new E-911 emergency communications center. Fourteen commissioners voted in favor, with no opposition. The two commissioners who serve on the E-911 board abstained from the vote.
This approval follows the recommendation of the Bedford County Financial Management Committee, which passed two key resolutions authorizing the issuance of general obligation bonds not to exceed five million dollars. The first resolution authorized the bond issuance up to this amount, while the second established the terms for the bond sale, repayment, and related tax levy.
Representatives from the E-911 board assured county officials that while the county will formally hold the debt, E-911 is prepared to repay the loan. Securing financing through the county allows E-911 to benefit from lower interest rates than if borrowing independently. Although the loan will be reflected on county financial statements, officials emphasized it will not negatively impact the county’s overall fiscal position.
The new facility will address the growing needs of the county’s emergency communications operations, providing upgraded space equipped to handle technological advancements and an expanding workforce. The current E-911 center will remain operational as a backup location, with its helipad continuing to serve emergency response needs.
Funding for E-911 is primarily supported by fees collected from mobile phone carriers. The board has also been setting aside reserve funds to contribute toward construction costs. While the final loan amount and terms are still being worked out, expenditures will not exceed the five million dollar cap outlined in the resolutions.
Ownership of the new building will rest with the E-911 board, differing from the existing facility, which is owned by the county. This project represents a major investment in Bedford County’s public safety infrastructure and is poised to improve emergency response capabilities for years to come
