RiverCom 911 invites citizens to learn more about ballot measure

RiverCom 911 dispatch station. Photo courtesy: Wenatchee World.

RiverCom 911 is continuing public outreach on a proposed 0.1% sales tax measure on the February 10, 2026 ballot to address growing challenges facing emergency communications across Chelan and Douglas counties.

RiverCom 911 serves as the primary 911 call-taking and dispatch agency for law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services across the region. The agency is experiencing increasing call volumes and rising technology and infrastructure demands—all while operating within aging facilities and systems. Seasonal tourism and visitors further strain the system, increasing the region’s population by approximately 40% during summer months and driving additional demand for emergency services.

To provide additional information and answer community questions, RiverCom 911 is hosting two public Q&A sessions:

• Monday, Jan. 26 at 6 p.m. at Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center, located at 127 S. Mission St. in Wenatchee.

• Monday, Feb. 2 at 6 p.m. at Douglas County Transportation & Land Services Building, located at 140 19th St. NW in East Wenatchee.

  
  

The proposed sales tax—equal to one cent on a $10 purchase—would provide a stable, locally controlled funding source to help modernize 911 technology, improve system reliability, strengthen cybersecurity, and address coverage gaps. It would also help fund long-term infrastructure needs, including facility improvements necessary to ensure continuity of operations during major emergencies. Because the tax is applied to purchases, visitors and tourists would contribute to funding the emergency communications system they rely on while in the region.

Both the Chelan County Board of Commissioners and the Douglas County Board of Commissioners have recently passed resolutions in support of the proposed measure, citing the critical role of reliable emergency communications in protecting public safety and supporting first responders.

“Every 911 call is a moment when someone needs help immediately,” said Doug Jones, Executive Director of RiverCom 911. “This proposal is about ensuring our systems, staffing, and facilities are equipped to meet today’s demands and tomorrow’s crises.”

Read more here.