Early Tuesday morning, two dispatchers marked a poignant moment as they delivered the final radio transmission for the Chesterton/Porter joint police dispatch center. Kaylee Nugent reflected on over 50 years of service, stating, “We weren’t the face of the department. We were its voice.” She expressed gratitude to their community and officers for the trust placed in them.
Jessica Holaway, a dispatcher from Chesterton, recounted the collaboration between the two communities since 2014. “Moving forward, your calls will be answered from a different room, and a new chapter will begin,” she said. Holaway emphasized the significance of the bonds and experiences shared in the dispatch center. As she signed off, she wished for the longevity of Northcom, a reference to the effort aimed at preserving the center. The shift concluded as the dispatch operations merged with Porter County E-911 at 6 a.m.
In the days leading up to the closure, dispatchers tried to keep spirits high. Decorations like streamers, confetti, and a banner labeled “The beginning of a new chapter” adorned the room. Porter Police Chief Dan Dickey remarked on the challenging nature of the transition but was grateful that the full-time employees found new roles, which accelerated the center’s closure to September 1. “It’s somewhat bitter,” Dickey admitted, highlighting his connection to the center where he began his career in 2006.
The joint dispatch was established in 2014 when Porter and Chesterton combined resources. Dickey preferred maintaining their own dispatch services but acknowledged the consolidation, initiated by a stressful incident on June 18, 2025. A situation involving a suspect at the Hilton Garden Inn escalated, leading to a shootout on Gateway Boulevard, which underscored the need for streamlined communications.
Criticism from Porter County officials about dispatch delays during the crisis sparked calls for the dispatch center’s restructuring. Ultimately, Porter County Commissioners decided that, by April 1, 911 calls would no longer be routed to the joint dispatch center. Nugent, staying on as a clerk, noted the difficulties of transitioning, as county dispatchers were unfamiliar with local protocols.
Efforts to improve relations between the communities and county ensued. Chesterton Police Chief Tim Richardson expressed empathy for displaced employees, while remaining optimistic about centralizing dispatch operations. Plans for adding a channel to the 911 system for Duneland area communities are under discussion. Meanwhile, Gunn is staying on temporarily until a successor is appointed, as the staff expands to eventually include 31 dispatchers.
Reporter Jim Woods contributed to the Post-Tribune.