RiverCom 911 schedules public Q&A sessions on proposed sales tax measure

WENATCHEE — RiverCom 911 is continuing public outreach on a proposed 0.1 percent sales tax measure that will appear on the Feb. 10 ballot, with two public question-and-answer sessions scheduled later this month and early February.

The proposed tax would apply across Chelan and Douglas counties and is intended to address increasing demands on the region’s emergency communications system. RiverCom 911 serves as the primary 911 call-taking and dispatch agency for law enforcement, fire and emergency medical services in both counties.

According to the agency, rising call volumes, aging facilities and increasing technology and infrastructure needs have created operational challenges. Seasonal tourism and visitors also place added demand on the system, with the regional population increasing by an estimated 40 percent during summer months.

RiverCom 911 will host two public Q&A sessions to provide information about the proposal and answer community questions.

The first session is scheduled for 6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 26, at the Wenatchee Valley Museum and Cultural Center, 127 S. Mission St. in Wenatchee. The second session will be held at 6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 2, at the Douglas County Transportation and Land Services Building, 140 19th St. NW in East Wenatchee.

The proposed sales tax would generate funding equivalent to one cent on a $10 purchase. RiverCom 911 officials said the revenue would be used to modernize 911 technology, improve system reliability, strengthen cybersecurity and address coverage gaps. The funding would also support long-term infrastructure needs, including facility improvements intended to ensure continuity of operations during major emergencies.

Because the tax would be applied to retail purchases, visitors and tourists would also contribute to funding the emergency communications system during their time in the region, according to the agency.

Both the Chelan County Board of Commissioners and the Douglas County Board of Commissioners have approved resolutions supporting the measure, citing the role of emergency communications in public safety and first responder operations.

“Every 911 call is a moment when someone needs help immediately,” said Doug Jones, executive director of RiverCom 911. “This proposal is about ensuring our systems, staffing, and facilities are equipped to meet today’s demands and tomorrow’s crises.”

Ballots must be postmarked or deposited in an official ballot drop box by 8 p.m. on election day, Tuesday, Feb. 10. Additional information about the proposal is available on the RiverCom 911 website at rivercom911.org/sales-tax-proposal.