Final Signoff for Chesterton/Porter Dispatch Center Marks New Beginnings

On Tuesday morning, an emotional final radio transmission echoed from the Chesterton/Porter joint police dispatch center. Kaylee Nugent, representing the long-standing voice of local dispatchers, reflected on how these professionals answered calls for over half a century. Nugent remarked, “We weren’t the face of the department. We were its voice.” Her words honored all who served in her role, thanking the community and officers for trusting them through the years.

Jessica Holaway, associated with the Chesterton dispatch center, shared her thoughts on the collaboration between the two towns. In 2014, Chesterton and Porter combined their dispatch efforts. Holaway acknowledged that, from now on, calls would be answered from a different location. She expressed that the moments shared within the dispatch center were significant, saying, “The friendships, the laughs, the cries, and the hard calls all mattered.” Her farewell included the phrase “Long live Northcom,” referencing efforts to preserve the dispatch center.

At 6 a.m., the dispatch center consolidated with the Porter County E-911 service, marking a new chapter. In the final days, dispatchers sought to uplift the mood, decorating the center with streamers, confetti, and banners. “The beginning of a new chapter” was prominently displayed. This festive atmosphere was designed to give a positive spin to the closure.

Chief Dan Dickey praised the employees for their resilience. He confirmed that all full-time staff secured new employment, allowing for an earlier closure than planned. Dickey, who began his career as a part-time dispatcher in 2006, expressed mixed feelings about the consolidation. He preferred the towns to maintain their own dispatch center.

The consolidation began with a significant incident on June 18, 2025. Two Chesterton officers responded to a disturbance at the Hilton Garden Inn, which escalated into a shootout. The aftermath prompted critical responses about dispatch delays from Commissioner Jim Biggs and Communications Director Debby Gunn. Criticism led to intensified scrutiny and calls for structural change.

To comply with state regulations, Porter County Commissioners mandated that all 911 calls must be dealt with centrally, halting transfers to the Chesterton/Porter dispatch center. Nugent noted the challenges of transitioning, as county dispatchers were unfamiliar with local protocols.

Efforts to foster improved relations between the communities and the county are ongoing. Chesterton Police Chief Tim Richardson empathized with the displaced employees but anticipates enhanced communication from centralized dispatching. The county plans to add a channel for Duneland area communities, with Chesterton and Porter currently sharing a channel with the Sheriff’s Office.

Debby Gunn, amid preparations for the transition, plans to step down once her successor is chosen. She is optimistic about future improvements, with 23 dispatchers on staff and plans to reach a total of 31.

Freelancer Jim Woods contributed to this report for the Post-Tribune.