From the desk of Joe Switzer, Monmouth Police Chief:
This week is National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week (April 12–18, 2026) and the City of Monmouth is dedicated to recognizing and honoring the dedicated men and women who serve as the first, first responders and include our public safety telecommunicators (also known as 911 dispatchers, call-takers, and emergency communicators). Locally, our Warren County 911 Dispatchers include Kelly Lant, Alyssa Smock, Nick Brown, Julie Richardson, Alexis Johnston, Mackinzie Smock, and Haley Peel. They are the calm, steady voices on the other end of the line when someone dials 911 in a moment of crisis. They gather critical information, dispatch police, fire, EMS, and other responders, often while managing multiple high-stress situations at once. They work 24/7, behind the scenes, unseen by the public, yet they touch countless lives every single day through their skill, composure, and compassion.
This week is about saying thank you for their commitment, sacrifice, and the unseen burden they carry so the rest of us can feel safe. Whether it’s a quiet shift or a chaotic night, they answer every call with professionalism and humanity. To all telecommunicators: Thank you for being the critical link between an emergency and help. Thank you for your quick thinking, your empathy, and your unwavering service. You truly are the heroes behind the scenes — we appreciate you more than words can say! Happy National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week 2026!
