Office of Emergency Management & Communications (OEMC), City of Chicago

Background

The Office of Emergency Management & Communications (OEMC) is a pivotal department within the City of Chicago, dedicated to safeguarding residents and visitors by managing the city's public safety communications and coordinating emergency responses. Established to enhance Chicago's preparedness and resilience, OEMC's mission encompasses operating the 9-1-1 and 3-1-1 call centers, overseeing emergency management, and facilitating citywide operations. As Chicago's liaison with federal and state emergency management agencies, including the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Illinois Office of Emergency Management, OEMC plays a critical role in the city's public safety infrastructure.

Key Strategic Focus

OEMC's strategic objectives include:

• Emergency Communications: Operating the 9-1-1 center to dispatch police, fire, and emergency medical services, and managing the 3-1-1 center for non-emergency city services.

• Emergency Management: Coordinating responses to emergencies, disasters, and significant events, ensuring effective planning and resource allocation.

• Traffic Management: Through the Traffic Management Authority (TMA), ensuring safe and efficient traffic flow, particularly during special events and high-traffic periods.

• Public Outreach: Disseminating critical information and preparedness messages to the public via various channels, including social media and community engagement initiatives.

Financials and Funding

In the fiscal year 2025, OEMC's proposed budget is $97,376,598, reflecting an 11.6% decrease from the previous year. This reduction is primarily due to a $15 million decrease in professional and technical services contracting. Despite the budget cut, the department plans to increase its headcount by 13 positions, focusing on enhancing fire communications and Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) operations.

Technological Platform and Innovation

OEMC leverages advanced technologies to fulfill its mission:

• Chicago Emergency Communications Center (CECC): A state-of-the-art facility consolidating emergency communications for police, fire, and emergency medical services, equipped with a 176-mile fiber optic network and advanced mapping systems.

• All-Hazard Alert Warning Systems: Designed to provide audible alerts to the public during emergencies, ensuring timely dissemination of critical information.

Leadership Team

• Martin Doyle: Managing Deputy Director

• Joshua Dennis: First Deputy Director

• David Ramos: Deputy Director

• Dionne Tate: Deputy Director - Investigations, FOIA, and Training

• Matthew Doughtie: Manager of Emergency Management Services

Leadership Changes

In October 2023, Jose Tirado served as the interim Executive Director, addressing staffing challenges and coordinating responses to various city events and emergencies.

Competitor Profile

While OEMC operates as a municipal agency without direct competitors, it collaborates and coordinates with various entities to enhance public safety:

• Chicago Fire Department (CFD): Provides firefighting and emergency medical services, working closely with OEMC for dispatch and emergency response coordination.

• Chicago Police Department (CPD): Handles law enforcement and public safety, with OEMC managing 9-1-1 call-taking and dispatch operations for CPD.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

OEMC engages in partnerships to bolster its capabilities:

• Federal and State Agencies: Acts as Chicago's liaison with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Illinois Office of Emergency Management, ensuring coordinated emergency management efforts.

• Public Awareness Campaigns: Collaborated with Marvel's Ironheart to promote emergency preparedness among younger audiences, particularly ahead of tornado season.

Operational Insights

OEMC's comprehensive approach to emergency management, encompassing communication, coordination, and public outreach, positions it as a central hub in Chicago's public safety network. Its integration of advanced technologies and strategic partnerships enhances its effectiveness in managing emergencies and large-scale events.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

OEMC is focusing on addressing staffing challenges, particularly in enhancing bilingual capabilities within the 3-1-1 call center to better serve Chicago's diverse population. Additionally, the department is preparing for significant events like the 2024 Democratic National Convention, ensuring robust emergency management and public safety coordination.

Contact Information

• Website: City of Chicago OEMC

• Social Media:

• Facebook: Chicago OEMC Facebook Page

• Instagram: Chicago OEMC Instagram

• YouTube: OEMC Chicago YouTube

• Twitter: Chicago OEMC

OEMC remains committed to enhancing Chicago's emergency preparedness and response capabilities through continuous improvement and community engagement.