Washington County Commissioners will consider a renewal of the Code Red emergency alert system at their Thursday, September 9 meeting.
With the Code Red system, state and local agencies can deliver geo-targeted, time-sensitive information to individuals who have registered to receive alerts.
Washington County Emergency Management Agency Director Russell Riner was present during the Commissioners’ Tuesday, September 7 workshop. According to EMA Director Riner, the alert system renews annually in July; however, with this year, the contract increased six percent due to COVID-19.
EMA Director Riner stated that he negotiated the contract; they agreed to a three percent increase if the County would consider a three-year contract.
“We’ve been using Code Red for over 10 years,” said Riner.
According to Riner, the County and the City of Sandersville split the cost of the system.
“It’s being used, and it’s a very important tool to notify the public,” said Washington County EMA Director Riner.
The proposed annual contract is for $8,809; if approved, this would be split with the City of Sandersville.
In addition to the Code Red contract, Washington County Commissioners will also consider rural fire agreements during their Thursday, September 9 meeting.
Commissioners will discuss bids for striping, as well as a contract ratification for the HVAC unit repairs at the Washington County Courthouse.
Washington County Commissioners will also discuss an application for an expansion to the Washington County Health Department. The expansion would increase the number of exam rooms in the facility, as well as expand the drive-thru and parking area which allows the staff at the Health Department to see more patients. CARES money would be used to fund this project; a 10 percent match would be required from the County.
Washington County Chairman Horace Daniel commended the staff at the Washington County Health Department for the work they do to help provide quality healthcare to the public.