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Telecommunications industry

Northampton County Hires New Administrative Director for Emergency Communication and 911 Oversight

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Northampton County has taken a step towards improving its emergency communication system by hiring a retired telecommunications specialist, William J. Hetherman, as its administrative director for emergency communication and 911 oversight. Hetherman, who began work on Monday, will be responsible for monitoring the performance of the county's privatized 911 system, investigating complaints, and working with the 911 citizens advisory board. His position comes with a $41,700 salary and will work to ensure the county complies with the terms of its contract with MCI Systemhouse Corp. The new role was created to relieve the workload of Dick Teasdale, the 911 coordinator, who has been dealing with the complex legal issues surrounding the 911 system. Hetherman's experience in communication systems for police, fire, and emergency service providers makes him a valuable asset to the county.

Key Takeaways:

  • William J. Hetherman, a retired telecommunications specialist, has been hired as the administrative director for emergency communication and 911 oversight in Northampton County.
  • Hetherman will oversee the performance of the county's privatized 911 system and investigate complaints.
  • He will work with the 911 citizens advisory board and will be responsible for ensuring the county complies with the terms of its contract with MCI Systemhouse Corp.
  • Hetherman's salary is $41,700, and he will work out of the county's Graystone Building in Upper Nazareth Township.
  • The new position was created to relieve the workload of Dick Teasdale, the 911 coordinator, who has been dealing with the complex legal issues surrounding the 911 system.
  • Hetherman has 18 years of experience in communication systems for police, fire, and emergency service providers.
  • He previously worked for New England Telephone and AT&T's corporate headquarters.
  • County Executive Glenn Reibman stated that Hetherman brings experience in technology, policy, and procedures to the position and is well qualified to serve in this capacity.
  • Hetherman's role will complement that of Dick Teasdale, who has experience in areas that Hetherman does not.

Statistics:

  • The county is paying Hetherman a salary of $41,700.
  • The privatized 911 system is operated by MCI Systemhouse Corp. under a 10-year, $43 million contract.
  • The contract is in its second year of operation.
  • The county and MCI Systemhouse are locked in a complex legal battle over the pact and the operation of and access to the 911 center.
  • 18 years - the amount of experience Hetherman has in communication systems for police, fire, and emergency service providers.

Sources:

  • The Morning Call
  • County of Northampton
  • MCI Systemhouse Corp.
  • New England Telephone
  • AT&T

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