The province will conduct a review of E-Comm, which provides 911 emergency dispatch and emergency communication for many municipalities, including Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows, citing cost concerns.
The provincial government announced an independent review of E-Comm and 911 service to ensure that there is a reliable and sustainable model for 911 services in British Columbia. The review will examine and provide recommendations on the financial, governance, and operational performance of Emergency Communications for British Columbia Incorporated (E-Comm), the non-profit organization that maintains the emergency radio system for police, fire and ambulance services.
“You can never predict when you’ll need emergency help, but if it happens, we need to ensure a dependable, reliable and accessible 911 system is there,” said Garry Begg, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General.
“We are launching an independent review to understand the reasons behind ongoing cost increases, and to ensure these services remain effective and sustainable for years to come.”
It's a response to concerns raised by the Union of BC Municipalities, the BC Association of Chiefs of Police, municipal police boards and emergency service providers about E-Comm’s lack of operational and financial transparency and performance, and escalating costs from unstainable levy increases.
The City of Maple Ridge anticipates an approximately 15 per cent increase in costs for 2025, which it says will not significantly impact property taxes.
Pitt Meadows Mayor Nicole MacDonald, who was a first responder in her career as a police officer, said her city is one of those with questions about the governance structure and financial cost to deliver service.
At the city's public council meeting on Oct. 29, E-Comm provided an overview of services and costs associated with their contracts. They will engage with the city on proposed changes stemming from the coming review, including recommended improvements to their pricing model and cost-allocation. The city anticipates more information and discussions with E-Comm after the review, this spring or summer.
MacDonald has served on the E-Comm board in the past. Pitt Meadows shares a board seat with Maple Ridge because of the joint Ridge Meadows RCMP police detachment, and currently it is Mayor Dan Ruimy’s term to serve on the board.
The city of Maple Ridge is engaged with decision-makers as part of this review, noted city spokesperson Pardeep Purewal. As the mayor serves on the E-Comm board of directors, the city also has a direct voice in the effective governance and operations of E-Comm and ensuring that public safety remains a top priority, she added.
The independent study will assess E-Comm’s financial sustainability, operational efficiency and governance structure, and will make recommendations. This includes a review of financial records for a deeper understanding behind the ongoing rise in costs to communities serviced by E-Comm, E-Comm’s financial forecasting, board management, and governance. It will also include recommendations to inform changes that may be needed to ensure sustainable funding and operations for B.C.’s 911 and dispatch service delivery.
During the review, people will be able to access 911 services without disruption, and public safety will remain unaffected.
