Strengthening communication

Tower donation will improve emergency services in rural county

Wiregrass Electric Cooperative has donated one of its transmission towers to Geneva County E-911, a gift that will significantly improve communications coverage in the county and provide a cost-effective solution for E-911 operations.

Geneva County, a small and rural county, often faces challenges with communication coverage, especially in areas plagued by “dead spots.” With the 300-foot transmission tower from WEC, which the cooperative no longer needed, the E-911 board can now establish a minimum of four towers throughout the county. This initiative will ensure that police, fire departments and rescue teams have a reliable signal to communicate effectively during emergencies.

The significance of this donation lies not only in the improved emergency response capabilities but also in the potential for enhancing overall communication systems within the county.

David Hall, vice chairman for the E-911 board, says he hopes other organizations, including the school system, will see the benefits of its improved communications network and choose to become better connected to emergency services.

“By equipping school buses with radios and extending communication capabilities to other institutions in the county, it would improve the quality of life for citizens in Geneva County,” Hall says.

The financial implications of acquiring a new transmission tower can be quite substantial. According to Hall, a new tower could cost roughly $75,000. However, thanks to the generosity of WEC, the E-911 board only had to bear the cost of relocating the tower.

“It’s really a win-win situation,” Hall says. “We really appreciate the board of trustees at Wiregrass Electric for approving this. It’s all about working together to make our area better.”

By collaborating with the E-911 board, WEC demonstrates the power of cooperation between different entities for the greater good.

“This is really going to improve their coverage so that first responders can communicate more efficiently and, ultimately, save lives,” says WEC COO Brad Kimbro “We’re grateful for everything they do for our community and glad we can give them a helping hand.”

The impact of this donation extends beyond the immediate improvement in communication coverage. It ensures the safety and well-being of the community and strengthens the emergency response capabilities of the county. Seamless communication between emergency services and other essential entities will provide critical support in times of need. 