Modernizing Coweta 911: How SPLOST Funds Are Being Used for New Call-Handling Tech

In a move to bolster public safety while maintaining fiscal discipline, Coweta County officials are moving forward with a critical overhaul of the local emergency response infrastructure. The effort, centered on modernizing Coweta 911, involves the implementation of advanced call-handling technology funded through the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST). This initiative represents a key test of whether local government can effectively translate taxpayer dollars into tangible safety improvements for the residents of Newnan and the surrounding areas.

During the July 21, 2026, Board of Commissioners meeting, officials approved a strategic agreement with Mission Critical Partners to develop a formal request for proposal (RFP) for the county’s 911 call-handling system. This move is not merely a technical upgrade; it is a fundamental shift toward ensuring that when a citizen dials those three critical digits, the technology behind the scenes is as reliable and efficient as possible. By utilizing SPLOST funds, the county is adhering to a "pay-as-you-go" model that avoids the pitfalls of long-term debt, a core tenet of conservative governance.

The Basics

To understand this project, one must first understand the mechanism behind the funding. SPLOST is a one-percent sales tax voted on by the citizens of Coweta County for a specific period, typically five to six years. Unlike general fund revenue, which can be used for various operating expenses, SPLOST funds are legally restricted to capital projects such as roads, bridges, and public safety equipment.

Coweta County has a long history with this tax, with voters consistently supporting it since 1986. The current 2025 SPLOST cycle is part of a broader 7% total sales tax in the county, which includes the state’s 4% share and other local options. For the 911 modernization project, the county is using these funds to hire Mission Critical Partners, a consulting firm specializing in public safety technology. Their role is to draft the technical requirements for the new system, ensuring that the county doesn't just buy the most expensive software, but the most effective one for our specific needs.

How It Works

The modernization process begins with the Request for Proposal (RFP). Instead of simply picking a vendor, the county is using a competitive bidding process to ensure transparency and merit-based selection. Mission Critical Partners will help the county define the specifications for integrated Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD), Records Management Systems (RMS), and Jail Management Systems (JMS).

This integrated approach allows for seamless communication between the 911 center, located at 195 International Park in Newnan, and the first responders in the field. When a call comes in, the new system will be designed to handle not only voice calls but also the increasing demand for text-to-911 services. By modernizing Coweta 911 with these tools, the county aims to reduce the seconds it takes to dispatch Coweta County Fire Rescue or the Newnan Police Department, which can be the difference between life and death in a cardiac or fire emergency.

Why It Matters to Newnan

For the residents of Newnan, this project is about more than just new computers. It is about the fundamental duty of government: protecting the life, liberty, and property of its citizens. A modernized 911 system ensures that the rule of law is upheld and that public safety personnel have the tools they need to do their jobs effectively.

Furthermore, the use of SPLOST funds is a win for local property owners. Because Coweta County is a regional shopping destination, a significant portion of the sales tax revenue is generated by visitors from neighboring counties like Heard, Meriwether, and Troup. This means that people who do not live here are helping to pay for the infrastructure that keeps Newnan safe. This strategy helps keep the local millage rate lower than it would be if these projects were funded solely through property taxes. In fact, the Board of Commissioners recently held public hearings on August 11, 2026, to discuss the Coweta County Property Tax Rate 2026: Public Hearings Set for Millage Rate, where the benefits of sales tax offsets were a point of discussion.

By prioritizing public safety technology, the county is also supporting the local economy. Safe communities attract investment and allow small businesses to thrive without the looming threat of rising crime or inadequate emergency services. This is consistent with other local efforts to support the economy, such as when Coweta Considers New Rules for Local Cottage Food Businesses to reduce regulatory burdens on home-based entrepreneurs.

What Happens Next

The development of the RFP is the first major milestone in this modernization phase. Once Mission Critical Partners completes the requirements, the county will solicit bids from technology providers. Taxpayers should expect a rigorous review process where the focus remains on technical capability and cost-efficiency rather than political optics.

Looking ahead, the Board of Commissioners has scheduled additional public hearings for the 2026 millage rates on August 25, 2026, at 7:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. These meetings provide an opportunity for citizens to see exactly how their tax dollars—both from property and sales taxes—are being allocated. As the 911 project moves from the planning stage to implementation, the county’s commitment to transparency will be vital. Residents are encouraged to stay engaged with the process, ensuring that Coweta remains a leader in public safety and fiscal responsibility in the state of Georgia.

More Coweta County Coverage

For more reporting from across Coweta County — Newnan, Senoia, Sharpsburg, Grantville, Moreland, and every community in the county — visit our Coweta County news hub, or browse all local news from WorthFighting.org.