Soddy-Daisy Joins Hamilton County 911

SODDY DAISY, Tenn. (WDEF) – The City of Soddy-Daisy is officially consolidating its emergency communications with Hamilton County 9-1-1, a move leaders say will improve response times, enhance technology, and save taxpayer dollars.

The Soddy-Daisy Commission voted on September 18 to approve the partnership, with the transition taking effect October 29, 2025. 

City Manager Burt Johnson said maintaining an independent 9-1-1 center would have required up to $350,000 a year in staffing costs, plus more than $300,000 for future technology upgrades.

“Consolidating with Hamilton County 9-1-1 is the best decision operationally and financially for our citizens,” Johnson said.

Hamilton County 9-1-1 Executive Director Jeff Carney said the move will ensure faster, more coordinated responses during emergencies. 

“By bringing Soddy-Daisy into the District’s framework, we can provide cutting-edge technology, consistent training, and seamless interoperability for all first responders,” Carney said.

For residents, the change means 9-1-1 calls will be answered directly by certified Emergency Medical Dispatchers trained in lifesaving CPR and crisis response. 

The new system eliminates the need to transfer calls between agencies, saving crucial seconds in life-threatening emergencies.

Soddy-Daisy telecommunicators who transition to Hamilton County 9-1-1 will keep their current pay, hire dates, and shifts, while gaining access to expanded training, career opportunities, and additional leave time.

Soddy-Daisy Police Chief Claude “Billy” Petty said the consolidation will help improve officer safety and overall response times. 

Fire Chief William “Dusty” Morgan added that the partnership enhances radio communication and interoperability during major incidents.

With this transition, Hamilton County 9-1-1 now serves every municipality in the county except the Town of Lookout Mountain. 

Officials say the unified system strengthens public safety countywide by improving technology access, coordination, and emergency preparedness.