Since its introduction in 1968 the 911 emergency phone system has always faced a balancing act: Although it's cheaper to run a system shared by a number of communities, the best service is usually local -- from people who know the community, know local conditions, know whom to call.
The same can probably be said for 211. Under the 211 system, individuals can call a single number and get information on a host of services -- where to get food or shelter or more -- from all kinds of sources: churches, state or local agencies, private foundations.
Though the service is little known here, seven out of 10 Michigan residents -- including the entire Upper Peninsula -- already have access to 211. But a turf dispute has blocked creation of a Grand Traverse-based 211 system that could include as many as 20 (or as few as five) counties in northern Lower Michigan, including the Grand Traverse area. Officials say a resolution could be years away.
The same can probably be said for 211. Under the 211 system, individuals can call a single number and get information on a host of services -- where to get food or shelter or more -- from all kinds of sources: churches, state or local agencies, private foundations.
Though the service is little known here, seven out of 10 Michigan residents -- including the entire Upper Peninsula -- already have access to 211. But a turf dispute has blocked creation of a Grand Traverse-based 211 system that could include as many as 20 (or as few as five) counties in northern Lower Michigan, including the Grand Traverse area. Officials say a resolution could be years away.
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