OC’s 911 backup in line for upgrade

By design, Seneca serves as backup to Oconee County’s 911 emergency system. And, if County Council says yes next week, Seneca Police Station equipment will get an upgrade. That upgrade, according to Oconee Communications Officer Travis Tilson, will enable the Seneca 911 center to receive text messages to 911. Seneca Police Chief John Covington says 911 phone calls made from within the city are answered by city dispatchers. Cell calls, however, are a little different. They go to the county first, then get transferred once jurisdiction is determined. County Council Tuesday is being asked to consider hiring a Colorado company, Intrado, to provide nearly $173 thousand worth of software upgrades and equipment replacement at the police department.