Sheriff Chad Anderson today unveiled a new addition, the Bates County Sheriff Mobile Command Center as seen here. The converted travel trailer was purchased from the State of Missouri as surplus property, and will be undergoing some transformation over the next few months. Such a unit has been needed for quite a while- "We have worked some eight standoff situations since I became Sheriff, and every time we had work out of the front seat of my truck" said Anderson. The command center will be set up for any situation, including standoffs "We want everyone to know that this unit is available for any situation, county wide" explained Anderson "Whether it be a natural disaster, a police situation or other". The Sheriff emphasized that if the mobile command center is needed, the department will also provide personnel to man it as necessary.
Not only will the mobile command center provide more working space, but a few needed indemnities, too "Such as a restroom" laughed the Sheriff "People tend to forget when you're on a scene for many hours, that's a necessary thing". The interior of the unit currently has a standard travel trailer set up which will be modified to include wireless video surveillance, internet, exterior lighting and a radio dispatch center, enabling the operator to maintain contact with all other state and local agencies involved. The pull out section of the trailer will allow seating for up to 7 people, while the kitchen portion will be maintained as a 'clean area' for preserving and handling evidence.
The mobile command center project is funded by money received for civil service fees collected by the department. "Again, this is for the entire county to be used when and where as needed" said Anderson. Although the command center can be used as is, the work detailed above should be completed by the first of the year.
Left to right-Southern Commissioner Larry Berry, Northern Commissioner Randy Pike, Presiding Commissioner Donna Gregory, Sheriff Chad Anderson
