Rocky Ford council to consider regional 911 authority proposal
The council is scheduled to discuss and potentially act on an agreement creating a 12-party authority for regional 911 and emergency dispatch services.
The Rocky Ford City Council is scheduled to consider joining a proposed regional authority for 911 and emergency dispatch services during its regular meeting Tuesday, Sept. 22.
The item, listed as “Discussion/Action IGA for Arkansas Valley Emergency Communication Authority,” is scheduled for the 6 p.m. meeting at 203 S. Main St., following a 4:30 p.m. work session, according to the city council agenda.
The proposed authority would be a separate legal entity involving Otero and Kiowa counties; La Junta, Cheraw, Swink, Manzanola, Fowler and Rocky Ford; and the La Junta, Rocky Ford, Manzanola and Fowler rural fire protection districts.
Under the proposed intergovernmental agreement, the authority could operate a regional communications center, provide 911 and enhanced 911 services, dispatch emergency responders, coordinate shared radio frequencies and hire employees. Its initial governing board would include representatives of both county commissions, the Otero and Kiowa county sheriffs, the La Junta and Rocky Ford police and fire chiefs, an additional Otero County appointee and two at-large members.
The agreement does not set a startup appropriation, annual dollar amount or fixed contribution from each party. Instead, the board would approve an annual budget for administrative, operational, capital and reserve expenses. The authority could receive grants, donations, fees and charges to nonparty users.
The agreement lists Oct. 1, 2026, as a proposed effective date, but says the authority would be formed only after all parties execute it. The council’s discussion is the next documented step for Rocky Ford; the agreement remains subject to approval, amendment, postponement or rejection.