Haywood County Joins the Tennessee Advanced Communications Network

On Tuesday, August 4, the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security (TDOSHS) joined Haywood County leaders for a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony celebrating the county's official transition to the Tennessee Advanced Communications Network (TACN).

Those in attendance included: Haywood County Sheriff Billy Garrett, Haywood County Mayor David Livingston, Haywood County EMS Director Dustin McKeel, State Representative Johnny Shaw, District Liaison for Senator Page Walley-Tommy Perkins, law enforcement personnel and first responders.

By joining TACN, Haywood County strengthens its emergency communications capabilities, ensuring first responders have reliable, interoperable radio service for daily operations and major incidents. The move enhances coordination with local, state, and federal partners across Tennessee, improving safety and response efforts throughout the region.

"Today, you're joining a statewide interoperable communication network that is dependable in both rural areas, urban areas and all across our state," said TDOSHS Commissioner Jeff Long. "Joining the system and coming on board means there are safer days ahead."

"Haywood County is 533 square miles, and I remember when we had just 2 or 3 deputies trying to cover it," stated Haywood County Sheriff Billy Garrett. "Imagine being on one end of the county and not having a radio that worked so you could get help when needed—that problem has gone away!"

Currently, TACN supports more than 73,000 local, state, and federal government users statewide. Last year all state agencies transitioned to TACN to experience the statewide communications interoperability and the cost savings it delivers.

For more information about TACN visit, tn.gov/safety/tacn.