The City of Nashville recently held its 2025 Department of Emergency Communications (DEC) Annual Awards Ceremony, celebrating the dedicated service of its emergency responders. Mayor Freddie O'Connell and DEC Director Steve Martini highlighted the critical role these professionals play in maintaining public safety and providing essential services to the community.

During the ceremony, Director Martini emphasized the immense responsibility carried by the DEC team, who handle approximately 1,500 calls daily. He acknowledged the challenges they face, including managing multiple urgent situations simultaneously while ensuring accurate and timely responses. Martini praised the collaborative efforts of the DEC staff, including the support from the 311 service, which helps manage non-emergency inquiries, allowing emergency lines to focus on urgent matters.

Mayor O'Connell expressed gratitude for the DEC's commitment to public service, noting that their work directly contributes to the safety and well-being of Nashville residents. He highlighted the importance of customer service in local government, stating that the administration is focused on improving city services to enhance residents' experiences. O'Connell pointed to a recent Vanderbilt University poll indicating that 58% of Nashvillians feel the city is headed in the right direction, a significant increase in optimism compared to previous years.

The ceremony also served as a platform to recognize the families and supporters of DEC employees, acknowledging their vital role in the success of the department. O'Connell reiterated that the top priority of government is to keep people safe, and the DEC team is at the forefront of that mission.

As Nashville continues to grow and evolve, the contributions of the Department of Emergency Communications remain crucial in fostering a safe and responsive community. The awards ceremony not only celebrated individual achievements but also reinforced the city's commitment to supporting its emergency responders in their ongoing efforts to serve and protect the public.