Press release/provided photos
The New York State 911 Coordinators’ Association held its annual Fall Conference at
the Penn Yan Seasons on Keuka Lake, Yates County, October 17th-19th.
More than one hundred 911 emergency coordinators, first responders, and communications industry
experts, representing all 62 New York counties, were in attendance. In addition to training and networking opportunities, industry updates from state and federal partners, and a vendor showcase of the latest equipment and technology available, the Association also held an awards luncheon.
Genesee County Emergency Services Dispatcher Andrew K. Merkel was posthumously awarded the association’s Telecommunicator of the Year Award. This Award is presented annually by the association that recognizes a 911 Telecommunicator for his/her accomplishments, sacrifice, and exceptional leadership skills. Dispatcher Merkel was nominated by Genesee County 911 Emergency
Services Director Frank Riccobono on behalf of the entire communications staff at the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.
Dispatcher Merkel was hired by the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office as an Emergency Services Dispatcher on October 1, 2011, and diligently served the citizens of Genesee County until his unexpected death on March 21, 2023, after a brief illness.
During his career at the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, Dispatcher Merkel was awarded four Commendations which recognized separate acts or projects that reflect courage, exceptional performance and dedication to both the profession and his agency. He also received a Meritorious Service award in recognition of his exceptional performance of duties sustained over an extended period. Dispatcher
Merkel also served as a Communications Training Officer, teaching the next generation of dispatchers.
Dispatcher Merkel was well respected by his coworkers and first responders throughout the county for his dedication and professionalism. His passion for public safety extended beyond the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, including volunteering with the Alabama Volunteer Fire Department; and prior to becoming a dispatcher, he spent six years working for Mercy EMS, Genesee County’s local ambulance
provider.
Director Riccobono stated, “Often, dispatchers are referred to as the voice of the first responders that you never see. This award is one way to show his family, friends, coworkers and dispatchers across the state that Andy’s years of dedicated service will not be forgotten.”
Dispatcher Merkel’s wife, Kelly, was present to accept the award on behalf of her late husband. Kelly was accompanied by their daughter, Kaylee, and Dispatcher Merkel’s parents, Kelly and Susan Merkel.