Recognizing the essential work of 9-1-1 telecommunicators

Published on April 21, 2026

2026-04-13 National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week Proclamation accepted by Valley Communications Executive Director Vonnie Mayer and 911 operator Syndey

When you call 9-1-1, the first voice you hear is unseen but essential. Public Safety Telecommunicators are the critical link between you and emergency response, including Renton Police Department and the Renton Regional Fire Authority, coordinating life-saving services 24 hours a day and 365 days a year.

During the April 13 council meeting, Mayor Armondo Pavone designated April 12 - April 18, 2026 as National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week. Accepting the proclamation was Valley Communications Executive Director Vonnie Mayer and 911 operator Sydney.

Executive Director Mayer reminded us, “When you call 9-1-1, the voice that answers is a first responder—a calm in chaos, a steady presence when everything else feels like it’s falling apart. They may not physically be at the scene, but they are the first link in the chain of survival.”

Valley Communications is the regional 9-1-1 center for South King County and has been serving Renton residents since 1977. Call receivers and dispatchers work long hours, abnormal schedules, and stressful situations to save lives across our region. Thank you to our public safety telecommunicators!

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