HANCEVILLE, Ala. – The Hanceville Police Department dispatch crew is finally settling into their newly renovated space this week; new chairs and consoles, along with newly created entryways and bathroom have given the dispatchers a fresh and functional space in which to operate. The renovation, the majority funded by two separate grants from the Alabama 911 Board totaling $50,000, was years in the making, but officially began Nov. 16, 2024, and just finished last week.
Hanceville Police Chief Joshua Howell emphasized that while a few challenges were presented during the renovation, he is pleased at the way the office has come together and hopes the space will create a more inviting and productive work environment for dispatchers.
“When the consoles first came in, the desktop consoles were not right, so they had to re-order those and get those here,” he said, noting there were also so challenges with radio system installation. Howell also mentioned the door lock system needed one final box checked, and the city council approved that on Thursday, Jan. 25.
Howell estimated the previous office was established in the mid-to-late 1980s, noting cramped spaces and a general lack of flow in the workspace made it difficult for dispatchers working 12-hour shifts as far as accommodating bathroom breaks, quick meals and general work responsibilities.
“They only had a small office in there when they first started,” said Howell, who also recognized and praised Hanceville’s public works team, explaining, “Public works knocked out a wall, installed the bathroom, sinks, plumbing and lighting.” A raised ceiling was also created with recessed can lights featuring dimmer switches, and some walls were removed to create ease of movement in the space.
“They also opened the wall to the kitchen because we didn’t have a door into the kitchen. It allows dispatch to flow from area to area without ever having to leave the area,” said Howell. The chief said the open and accessible space will create a more pleasant work environment overall for the team.
“It’s more like home. They have a full kitchen, bathroom, storage for their things. So, it’s more inviting for when they come in to work,” said Howell, emphasizing that though the renovation took longer than initially expected, since they’ve been back in the office, spirits seem to be high.
“We just got them back last week,” Howell laughed, expressing appreciation to the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office for stepping in and letting Hanceville’s dispatch team work there during the weeks of renovation – the CCSO also housed inmates from the Hanceville jail.
Howell said the main challenge from the get-go of the proposed renovation over the years was what to do with personnel, and Cullman County Sheriff Matt Gentry stepping up to the plate to assist in the transition. He said he’s glad it’s finally done.
“They treated them like they were family, and I couldn’t ask for anything better for our dispatchers. Matt Gentry, along with Amber who is over dispatch, they’ve done us really well and I really appreciate them,” smiled Howell.
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