MAYOR'S MESSAGE North Coos 911 Dispatchers Earn Commitment to Excellence Award It is my great honor to announce that North Coos 911 Dispatch has been awarded the prestigious Commitment to Excellence Award from the Oregon Chapter of APCO/NENA—one of only four presented statewide each year. This recognition was earned under extraordinary circumstances. In August 2024, the Coos County Sheriff’s Dispatch Center faced a staffing collapse that threatened emergency coverage. North Coos 911, though already stretched thin themselves, stepped up immediately—first covering shifts, and then, with less than 24 hours’ notice, assuming all 911 calls and dispatching responsibilities for 27 agencies across the county. This occurred over Labor Day weekend, one of the busiest times of the year. The challenges were immense: dispatchers suddenly had to operate two separate CAD systems, monitor nine radio frequencies, and manage double the call load, all while learning new jurisdictions and procedures on the fly. Through teamwork, determination, and long hours, they not only kept operations running—they delivered seamless, unbiased service when it mattered most. The success of this effort was guided by the strong leadership of Tessa Cupp, 911 Communications Administrator. With nearly 20 years of experience and steady, thoughtful direction, she helped unify the staff of two centers into one effective, resilient team. With deep pride, we recognize the dispatchers who earned this award: Jennifer Pickett, Holly Booras, Ronald Cottor, Andrew Otton, Tammy Allender, Kristen McGarity, Rhonda Wilson-Larsen, Tracye Pollin, Samantha Fleming, Haley Saccente, Brittany Miranda, Kelsey Reid, Amanda Ott, Casie Stone, Stacy Aranda, Erika Powell Littrell, Annalisa Church, Janel Dunning, and Cathy Larson. On behalf of the City of Coos Bay, I thank each of you for your extraordinary service. Your dedication, teamwork, and professionalism define the very best of public service, and this award is richly deserved. -Joe Benetti, Mayor of Coos BayPhotos from Coos Bay - City Government's post