News Summary
Williamson County Emergency Communications (WCEC) has been awarded dual accreditation as an Accredited Center of Excellence in emergency dispatching by the IAED. This recognition marks WCEC as a leader in emergency police and fire dispatch services, making it the first center in Texas to achieve emergency police dispatch ACE status and the fifth for fire dispatch. The accreditation highlights the organization’s commitment to improved service for residents contacting emergency services, ensuring better response times and communication during emergencies.
Georgetown, Texas – The Williamson County Emergency Communications (WCEC) has been awarded the prestigious title of Accredited Center of Excellence (ACE) in emergency dispatching, marking a significant achievement for the county. This dual accreditation, issued by the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED), was celebrated by the Williamson County Commissioners on June 10, 2025. WCEC is now recognized as a leader in emergency dispatch services, obtaining two accreditations: one for emergency police dispatch and another for emergency fire dispatch.
With this recognition, WCEC ranks as the 78th emergency fire dispatch and the 34th emergency police dispatch center to achieve ACE status worldwide. Notably, it is the first center in Texas to earn the emergency police dispatch ACE and the fifth to secure the emergency fire dispatch ACE. This dual recognition stands out, as WCEC is the sole entity in Texas to hold both accreditations.
WCEC Director Katherine Wolf highlighted that this accreditation reflects a commitment to providing a higher level of service to residents when they contact emergency services through 911. With the rigor involved in achieving this status, residents can expect enhanced response times and more effective communication during emergencies.
To attain the ACE designation, WCEC underwent a thorough review process based on the stringent standards outlined in the Twenty Points of Accreditation. This comprehensive evaluation measures critical dispatch practices, operational efficiency, and staff training, ensuring that agencies adhere to the highest standards in emergency response.
The recent accolade comes on the heels of a prevailing support from the community through the approval of a sales tax measure. Voters in Williamson County Emergency Services District No. 9 (ESD9) approved the measure on May 3, which will enable the district to levy up to 2% in local sales and use tax, supplementing the maximum state tax rate of 8.25%. The revenue generated from this measure is earmarked for vital initiatives such as strategic planning, equipment purchases, and training essential for fire and emergency personnel.
ESD9 President Michael Garcia emphasized that the successful vote reflects an investment in critical emergency services as Williamson County continues to experience growth. The funding will be pivotal for enhancing the capabilities of the emergency response teams and ensuring that they are well-equipped to handle a rising number of emergency calls and challenges.
In tandem with the sales tax measure, ESD9 Commissioner Alan Forster acknowledged the importance of community collaboration in delivering effective emergency services. He stated that successful partnerships with local leaders are crucial in meeting the evolving demands of the county’s growth and ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents.
The dual accreditation for WCEC is not only a point of pride for the organization but also signifies a commitment to excellence in public service. This achievement positions Williamson County as a model for other jurisdictions in delivering top-tier emergency dispatch services.
As emergency response protocols continue to evolve in response to increasing population and infrastructure demands, the steps taken by Williamson County Emergency Communications ensure that residents are supported by a highly skilled team prepared to handle emergencies efficiently and effectively.
With the combined efforts of WCEC, the newly approved funding, and community support, Williamson County is poised to maintain high standards in emergency dispatch, ultimately benefiting all who live in and visit the area.
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Additional Resources
- KXAN News: Williamson County Emergency Communications Receives Prestigious Accreditations
- Wikipedia: Williamson County, Texas
- Fire and Safety Journal Americas: Williamson Emergency Services Voters Support Sales Tax Measure
- Google Search: Williamson County emergency services
- CBS Austin: One Dead and Another Injured After Granger House Fire
- Google Scholar: Emergency Response Williamson County
- Williamson Source: Public Safety Director Bill Jorgensen to Retire After 35 Years Serving Williamson County
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Emergency Services
- Williamson Source: Mayor Appoints New Director of Williamson County Office of Public Safety
- Google News: Williamson County Emergency Services
