A Conversation with Resident Mr. Bob Curts
January 13, 2025
Today, I had the privilege of sitting down with Mr. Bob Curts, a resident of Morrow County, Ohio, who has lived a remarkable life dedicated to service, innovation, and his community. Our conversation was filled with stories about his role in implementing the “911” emergency system for his county—a legacy that has undoubtedly saved countless lives.
As we began, Mr. Curts was eager to share his story, holding a book filled with meeting minutes from his time as a county commissioner. Appointed to the Board of County Commissioners in 1985, he served on the Technical Advisory Committee responsible for planning and approving the “911” emergency system. He described the meticulous process of establishing the system, which involved determining the technical and economic feasibility of telephone companies to support the network.
Public meetings were held to gather input on the implementation proposals, adopt plans, and secure approval from local officials. Mr. Curts explained how the plans detailed which phone companies would participate, the location and number of Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs), and how emergency calls would be dispatched. These plans also outlined enhanced services, associated costs, and protocols for responding to emergencies.
The final entry in his book of minutes was from February 15, 2008, documenting a Morrow County Firefighters and Squadmen’s Association 911 Consolidation Committee Meeting—a testament to his dedication to the project over decades.
Beyond his contributions to public safety, Mr. Curts shared a bit about his life. Drafted into the Army in 1948, he completed basic training at Fort Knox and left the service as a Staff Sergeant. Afterward, he began working for a telephone company in its installation and repair department. At just 26 years old, he was promoted to a level 2 management position, later advancing to level 3 after completing courses in human resources. With a smile, he recalled,
“One week, I was working for my supervisor, and the next, he was working for me.”
In the 1980s, as competition in the telephone industry grew, Mr. Curts founded Morrow Telephone and Security in 1984—a family business that is still thriving under his son’s leadership as it celebrates its 40th anniversary this January.
As our conversation drew to a close, Mr. Curts reflected on his life. He spoke with pride about his three sons and the love he still holds for his late wife, whom he lost to ovarian cancer. At 96 years old, he humbly stated,
“I’ve had a great life, good health, and so much to be thankful for.”
Mr. Curts, it was an honor to shake your hand, hear your story, and spend time with you today. Thank you for your incredible contributions to public safety, your service to our country, and for choosing Mill Creek as your provider.