A new Garrett County emergency operations center underway is facing funding and logistical hurdles as colder weather approaches the highest-altitude areas of the state. A connection via fiber optics cables is views as essential, but both expensive and problematic, for the ongoing project. From coverage in the Cumberland Times-News:
Commissioner Jim Raley indicated that he and County Administrator Monty Pagenhardt would like to be updated on the status of the fiber optics at the EOC.
“If we are running into hurdles we may have to go another route,” said Raley. “From my vantage point, I want to see that project completed before the real heart of inclement weather. I think it’s something critical that needs to be in place this year.”
Previously, a makeshift command center at the courthouse was used.