Kistle okay with Sparta dispatch services

FRANKLIN n A serious automobile accident, in which the victim fortunately survived, has been the impetus for discussion regarding dispatch problems between Ogdensburg and Sparta, the organization that provides the dispatch service. Sparta also provides this service to Franklin Borough, and Police Chief Joseph Kistle was contacted to determine if Franklin's police, fire, and emergency services have experienced any problems with the dispatch service provided by Sparta. Kistle, referring specifically to the accident which occurred approximately three weeks prior in Franklin that was the momentum for the complaints from Ogdensburg, said, "The dispatch services that Sparta provides are very professional. Chief Reigstad (Sparta Police) and I have spoken on this issue, and I know it will be addressed by Sparta." He acknowledged that, as with any service, "nothing is 100 percent perfect, but if there is a flaw, the important thing is that it's corrected." Kistle said Franklin has worked with Sparta for at least 30 years and problems have been minimal, particularly considering the length of time of their association. He added that after a discussion, he is confident the problem will be corrected and said he looks forward to it not happening again. "In the past we have had numerous serious incidents that were handled extremely professionally by Sparta dispatch," said Kistle. Mayor Ailish Hambel of Sparta said she and Mayor Jacqueline Pietrodangelo of Ogdensburg have been communicating with each other. "We've spoken, and we're both committed to working this out together," she said. She agreed with Chief Reigstad, who said, "I back the concerns 100 percent," adding that correcting the problem is of greatest importance. She said that Reigstad would be reviewing the records relative to the incident and when his report is available, she will follow up as necessary. "We will make sure that the safety of the people is our highest priority." Mayor Pietrodangelo was away and not available for comment.