The emergency communication service serving the Sioux Falls area is undergoing a restructuring.
Metro Communications is the organization that handles 911 calls for Minnehaha County, including Sioux Falls. They coordinate emergency dispatch services with police, firefighters, and other emergency responders. The organization receives over 1,000 calls a day.
Currently, Metro Communications is jointly managed by county officials and Sioux Falls city leaders. Starting Jan. 1, the organization is transferring to Sioux Falls governance – essentially becoming a new city office.
“As Minnehaha County has grown in population and Sioux Falls’ footprint has grown along with its population, Metro Communications has adapted to maintain outstanding services for the communities it serves,” said Sioux Falls Mayor Paul TenHaken. “The restructure of this organization lays the groundwork for Metro Communications to continue to adapt as the region grows and the team prepares to move into its new home at the Public Safety Campus this fall.”
Officials say the restructure will not impact services.
“Over the years, Metro Communications has adjusted well to changes in leadership, structure, and operations. This restructure to the City of Sioux Falls will provide stability to the employees and continue to ensure the highest quality, integrated emergency communications services to those they serve,” said Gerald Beninga, Minnehaha County Commissioner. “We are looking forward to this next chapter for Metro Communications.”
A new Joint Powers Agreement will be brought to the joint city council and Minnehaha County Commission Meeting on Sept. 26. If approved, this will finalize the transition of Metro Communications to restructure under the city of Sioux Falls.