Emergency Dispatch Service Could Change In Marlboro

MARLBORO, N.J.— A special meeting to gather public input about possibly transferring township emergency dispatch services to Monmouth County is set for 7 p.m., June 2, Mayor Jonathan Hornik confirmed.

Hornik is not a supporter of the idea, adding that it is an initiative of Councilwoman Antoinette DiNuzzo, one of three Republicans who were sworn in to the council in January. But he said the public is welcome to give feedback. All council members voted to hold the special meeting.

"I feel we have a very capable, very good" staff of dispatchers, Hornik said when reached for an interview.

He noted that the radio system for the dispatch department does need upgrading and that will be a capital expense. "But we would need to do that no matter who handles the calls, " he added.

"I feel they (the current dispatch staff) does a great job on calls and can turn them into an immediate response," Hornik said.

Meanwhile, at a recent council meeting, Hornik presented the Marlboro Township dispatchers - or police communications operators - with a proclamation recognizing their dedication. "Dispatchers work behind the scenes, having answered more than 33,000 calls for service last year alone while remaining calm, compassionate and professional during the most trying of times." he said.

Hornik said the police department’s response time to a call is 2.6 minutes.

Action will not be taken at the meeting. The Republicans on the council are Juned Qazi, Michael Milman and DiNuzzo. The two Democrats on the council are Michael Scalea and Randi Marder. Hornik is also a Democrat.