As a advocate of Rowley, MA, I am deeply concerned about the proposed outsourcing of our local 911 center. The Rowley Board of Selectmen plans to move our emergency call center to Middleton, MA - a location already servicing five other communities. This decision will not only impact the citizens of Rowley  safety but also jeopardize the livelihoods of our dedicated dispatchers who would have to reapply for their jobs.

The importance of having a local emergency service cannot be overstated. In times of crisis, every second counts. A study by the National Emergency Number Association (NENA) reveals that localized dispatch centers can respond more quickly due to their intimate knowledge of the area and its residents. Outsourcing this vital service could potentially lead to slower response times and even dropped calls during emergencies.

Moreover, it is crucial that we value and protect jobs in our community. Our current dispatchers are trained professionals who have served Rowley diligently over the years. They should not be forced into uncertainty because of this decision.

We urge you to reconsider this move and keep our 911 services local in order to ensure quick response times during emergencies, protect jobs within our community, and maintain public safety as a top priority in Rowley.

Please sign this petition if you believe in preserving local emergency services for all residents in Rowley!