Left to right: Smith, Felty, Shimkus, Vaughn, Fear and Barrett.
Left to right: Smith, Felty, Shimkus, Vaughn, Fear and Barrett.

The National 911 Institute recognized the Counties of Southern Illinois 911 Association (CSI) with an award of excellence for implementing a regional Next-Generation 911 system. U.S. Representative John Shimkus, Chairman of the Congressional 911 Caucus, presented the CSI Executive Board with a plaque commemorating their achievement at the annual 911 Gala held in Washington D.C.

Shimkus praised the groups’ perseverance, cooperation, resourcefulness, and dedication in overcoming many obstacles to provide their citizens with the newest 911 technology.

“The CSI group banded 13 Emergency Telephone System Boards together to obtain federal grants to make the project possible. They formed partnerships with a university, a technology institute, a competitive local exchange carrier, and forward-thinking vendors.” Shimkus added. “They overcame regulatory, financial, and technological challenges that would have made many throw in the towel.”

Accepting the award were CSI Chairman Ken Smith of Williamson County, Treasurer Tracy Felty of Saline County, Secretary Jana Fear of Union County, Vice-Chairman William Barrett of Marion Police and member Justin Vaughn of Johnson County.

Co-recipients but unable to attend were Coordinators Randy DeMent of Perry County, Melinda Woker of Jackson County, Becky Mueller of Pulaski County, Kyle Smith of Wabash County, Julie Irwin of White County, Juanita Kramer of Richland County, Jennifer Brown of Clay County and Steve Galt of Gallatin County.