Lenoir City Development News

E-911 Funding Debate Highlights Inter-governmental Tensions and Financial Strain

Eric Carson, a 13-year law enforcement veteran and citizen of six years, addressed the E-911 funding situation, noting it was not on the agenda but was a serious issue. He emphasized the reliance of law enforcement on 911 services and expressed concern that the discretionary decision in 2023 to stop funding E-911 has carried over, potentially involving personal considerations. He highlighted that citizens rely on 911 for emergencies and frivolous calls, and that a cessation of services would be far more expensive than the current $82,000 deficit. He urged the council to reconsider and give the issue full attention. Mayor Akins responded by discussing the history of agreements regarding 911 funding, including past contributions and the existence of an agreement signed in 1988 establishing separate operations and an agreement where 911 would perform all services. He also detailed funding contributions from Loudon County and Lenoir City towards a regional training center and questioned why only Lenoir City and Loudon City are being asked for additional funds, citing existing fees paid by residents through property taxes and cell phone bills. The mayor also pointed out that other agencies like Tennessee Highway Patrol, Priority Ambulance Service, and Loudon County Rescue Squad are not being asked for funding, referencing a previous $10,000 contribution made in honor of Don Whitemore.