Overton-Pickett E-911 Decision Postponed

The State Emergency Communications Board has postponed making a decision on whether Pickett County can create its own Emergency Communications District.

The board voted this afternoon for a public hearing to be held in Pickett County before they vote to place the matter on a public referendum.

Pickett County Executive Richard Daniel has pushed for Pickett County to separate from the Overton-Pickett E-911 Service.

“I think today has been a good day for us to get a better grip on what we need to do to actually get the system started in Pickett County,” Daniel said.

Officials met for nearly four hours Friday as those involved with the current structure pleaded their cases for and against dissolution.

Board members questioned several Overton and Pickett County officials on the financial implications of the move. Overton County Executive Ben Danner, OPECD Director Chris Masiongale, and State Representative Kelly Keisling also spoke during the meeting.

Neither Danner nor Daniel had information regarding what a separation could do for both counties.

The vote comes after some board members motioned to proceed with Pickett County’s application. The decision was ultimately struck down 6-2, as Board Member Phillip Noel voted to amend the original motion and chose to proceed with a public hearing.

A meeting date has not yet been scheduled.