Gittens Says Reported Improper Disciplinary Action at VITEMA Impacted 911 Call Center, Not Only Covid-19

Senator Kenneth Gittens has expressed concerns about the need to bring in additional 911 operators from Ohio.

“Last week I communicated with the governor’s office about reported improper disciplinary actions within VITEMA and 911 dispatch in particular,” the senator said. “Just a few days later I learned, first through social media, that ten 911 operators had been brought in from Ohio to assist us here in the territory. We must, of course, guarantee that all calls to 911 are answered, but there is a larger issue in play in terms of ensuring the Virgin Islands Government is doing its part to attract, maintain and retain properly trained local employees. I am also very concerned about the cost of bringing in personnel from outside the territory.”