La Grange Dispatcher Punished For Failing To Sound Sirens

LA GRANGE, IL — The La Grange dispatcher who failed to activate sirens during a tornado warning in June was suspended without pay for two days as a result.

Through a public records request, Patch obtained records showing the discipline for the two dispatchers on duty the night of June 20 at the Lyons Township Area Communications Center, or LTACC.

In a July 15 memo, the dispatcher who acknowledged failing to sound the sirens was informed of the suspension.

"Such negligence and failure to follow policy cannot be tolerated," the agency's then-executive director, Michael O'Connor, said in the memo. "You are advised that any further policy violations of a similar nature will result in more severe discipline, up to and including your discharge from employment."

O'Connor also said the dispatcher's violation was severe, one that could warrant termination for a first offense. He said it placed residents "at great risk due to the severe nature of this storm, which included a tornado touchdown in nearby communities."

The other dispatcher that night was the shift leader. This dispatcher, too, received a letter of discipline, with the punishment being "written counseling." The dispatcher was warned that any more similar violations may result in progressive discipline.

In an Aug. 9 story, Patch reported on the investigation into the lack of sirens, including the first dispatcher's explanation for the failure to act, despite the tornado warning.

LTACC serves La Grange, La Grange Park, Western Springs and Countryside.

The tornadoes on June 20 touched down in Naperville, Woodridge and Darien.