Benton County officials discuss response to 911 dispatch letter

Benton County officials plan to respond to a request from Franklin County officials to start negotiations for a consolidated 911 dispatch center.

Members of the Benton County Emergency Services Board discussed a letter Thursday sent by Franklin County officials indicating they wanted to join forces on a dispatch center.

The letter stated that Franklin County wanted to be a full partner with Benton County in consolidation.

Benton County officials said they need time to review the letter before drafting a response.

The combined dispatch center, a plan that has been talked about for years, would provide more effective 911 coverage in the area, reducing dropped 911 calls and enhancing emergency response, officials said.

This story was originally published February 25, 2016 at 6:12 PM with the headline "Benton County officials discuss response to 911 dispatch letter."