Door finally closing on security measure

By
Natchitoches Times
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145
From left are George Minturn, Fire Chief John Wynn and Director Willis Carter.

By Juanice Gray, jgray@natchitochestimes.com

The NATCOM facility can finally shut the door on its security door installation issue. An interior security door installed by the general contractor did not meet specifications and has not operated correctly since installation. Architect George Minturn said he got four quotes on replacing the door to the tune of approximately $20,000 for the removal of the substandard door, the new door, installation and wall repairs.

The 911 Commission met in person for the first time since the pandemic began. Commissioners observed strict social distancing guidelines by wearing masks and observing 6-feet distance from every direction. From left are Larry Atteridge, Sheriff Victor Jones, Jack McCain Jr., John Nicholas, Police Chief Micky Dove, Mary Jones and Parish President John Richmond. Photos by Juanice Gray.

He said Hoist and Crain, Inc., will manufacture and install the new door. This was an issue with the previous product; it was not installed by the manufacturer and the general contractor installed it although it did not meet specs. Sufficient monies were withheld from the contractor to pay for the new door and associated costs.
It will take six-eight weeks to manufacture and two days to install.

Jack McCain, at right, examines the faulty door at the NATCOM center as Rick Nowlin, left, listens to George Minturn explain the issues with a faulty door in the August 2019 Times file photo. This particular interior door separates the regular building from the tornado and fire proof call center area. It is required to withstand a tornado, have locks on both sides and fit securely in its frame with all working mechanisms located inside the walls of the door. It did not meet the specifications and is being replaced at a cost of $20,000.

In April, the 911 call center operated by NPSO and NPD answered a total 1,921 calls and the 9-1-1 Addressing Office processed 12 applications for new addresses for residences and one updated address.

Director Willis Carter said the center has been on “lock down” status during Covid-19 limiting access to anyone other than staff. He said all health and safety precautions were implemented and sneeze barriers are being installed on the consoles where 911 operators field calls. Some office staff worked from home when possible. “The facility has experienced no sickness,” he said.

He also stated they were getting quotes from Console Cleaning Specialists for annual cleaning and maintenance for the consoles.

Cane River Lawn Service was awarded the bid for bi-weekly mowing services.
Carter said the district received a credit refund of $5,669.20 as the result of disconnecting two circuits that have become obsolete.

Financials revealed the district has no long-term debt obligations. “Overall, and at this point in the fiscal year, we are on track with both budgeted revenues and actual spending for 2020,” he said.

The board passed a resolution for a 5 percent pay raise for address coordinator/administrative assistant Bernice Wallace. A second resolution to engage in a five-year, $11,016 lease agreement with Southern Communications for tower space for two radio base stations also passed.

Present for the meeting were board chair John Wynn, and commissioners Larry Atteridge, John Nicholas, Micky Dove, Mary Jones, Victor Jones, Jack McCain Jr. and John Richmond. Chris Paige was absent.