Sometimes, it is important to have a record of exactly what a caller to 911 says, for both safety and crime-fighting efforts. But, Barton County Communications’ current recorder is on the fritz and the County Commission Monday morning approved replacing it.

“Voice logging is an important element of the 911 service,” said Communications Director Dena Popp. Audio recordings are made from telephones, radios, microphones and other sources. “This information is used to improve emergency services and to aid in criminal prosecution,” she said. But, the current recorder at 911 is failing. 

Popp researched options and suggested a Voice Products 30 Channel NICE Recording System be purchased. The cost of $42,833 includes installation, training, quality assurance, redacting feature, all licensing, and a one-year maintenance agreement. 

The evidence compliance pack and organizer feature, priced at $7,050, is included in the package and will be paid for by the County Attorney’s Office, said Casey Hubbard, office manager and investigator for the County Attorney’s Office. This will allow Hubbard’s office to access recordings via a server instead of requiring 911 to make a special recording.

Time for a change

“We’ve had three hard drive failures in the last 90 days,” Popp said. One around Thanksgiving resulted in the loss of two hours worth of recordings.

The current system had and expected lifespan of seven years, but has been in use for nine years. It comes from a company in California which has provided only limited support and maintenance assistance.

Voice Products is a Wichita company and works with many state agencies, Popp said. There are also other Barton County departments utilizing Voice Products equipment.

In addition, it is compatible with statewide networks and has the ability to record text messages as well. The firm also partners with AT&T and provides on-site service. 

The cost for 911’s portion will come from the county’s 911 tax. The County Attorney’s Office diversion fund will cover its portion.