MACECOM lease for new location is approved

The Port of Shelton approved a lease with MACECOM at the Nov. 19 meeting, allowing the 911 center to almost double its operating space.

MACECOM's current location at the Shelton Civic center has about 1,300 square feet, Executive Director Joe Schmit said at the meeting.

The new building on West Rose Nye Way in the port's Peste Business Park will have 5,000 square feet.

The lease is for 25 years with a 25-year option.

"We've been squeezed for space, stretched thin. I think we were down to six dispatchers over the summer," Schmit said.

At the same time, MACECOM saw an increase in calls, he said, with an average of 80,000 a year. The move will allow MACECOM to double staff and upgrade technology, according to Schmit.

"The decision to relocate to the Port of Shelton isn't just about moving, it's about reimagining what's possible," he said.

"Today is a milestone for MACECOM and for public safety in Mason County. By ratifying the lease agreement you're not just approving our move, you're opening the door to a stronger, more resilient 911 system and services for the community that we serve her in Mason County," Schmit told port commissioners.

"It's a move that reflects our belief that public safety is at the heart of a thriving community," he said.

Schmit resigned from the Shelton City Council in April and was appointed as executive director of the MACECOM Board of Directors in August.

He said he's dedicated nearly 20 years to public service and the immediate, tangible benefits MACECOM's new space will have on the community is "quite rewarding."

Schmit thanked Port of Shelton Executive Director Wendy Smith and port staff and said it will take collaboration to relocate the 911 dispatch, including moving all the fiber lines over to the new building.

Commissioner Dick Taylor, chaplain for Central Mason Fire and EMS, thanked MACECOM workers who were attending the meeting.

"I thank you dispatchers in particular because that's who we deal with. You're there and you're always calm and keeping track of us. Lots of times you hear things going on and I don't know how you keep it together," he said.

MACECOM plans to be fully operational at the new building in July, Schmidt said.