Question from Randy Coffey

Are you folks in Richmond aware that the "savings" brought about by joint 911 dispatch costs everyone involved about $3.50 more on their phone bills? Where's the savings in that. That's $42 more a household per year. No disrespect, Ms. Smart You seem to know your stuff.

Rita Smart answered:

Yes, I am aware of the increase. According to my notes from the meetings I attended, I think the increase would be $2.67. We are already paying .83 and if it goes up to $3.50, that would be $2.67. Of course that is one downside of combining 911. Again we must weight the good and bad, then determind what saving human lives is worth. Thank you for making that point.