County task force to address radio mandates
June 6th, 2007Sibley County Commissioners, last week, established a task force to address narrowband radio mandates from the Federal Communications Commission.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requires that law enforcement, public works and emergency services change from wideband (25 kilohertz) radio systems to narrowband (12.5 kilohertz or less). The requirement takes effect in 2013.
Tom Phillips, in March, talked to commissioners about establishing a committee. The purpose of the committee is to “see the best course of action for the county as a whole,” he explained.
Phillips explained that by requiring narrowband radio mandates, there will be advantages to the rest of the world by freeing up more frequencies. The new radio system will reduce the range of communication by 50%, but he believes the system will be better because more repeaters will be needed to provide better coverage throughout the county. There are now four “repeaters,” and he estimated that two or three more will be needed.
The requirement will also have large financial implications. Phillips estimated that it could cost one fire department $50,000 – $60,000 for a new radio system. It is hoped that by developing a county plan, the county could apply for a grant to help pay for the new system, Phillips said.
Task Force members include Darin Mielke and Phillips from the Public Works Department, Bruce Ponath and Pat Nienaber from the Sheriff’s Office; and Steve Schow, Emergency Management Director.
The city representative will be Marlon Holmquist, mayor of Gibbon. Ambulance representatives are Amy Hahn of Gaylord with Brian Thomas of Arlington as alternate. Mike Trebesch, Winthrop’s Fire Chief, was appointed to represent the fire departments, with Arlington Fire Chief Jeff Otto as alternate. Police will be represented by Henderson Police Chief Chester Aldrich. Dale Roiger, Gaylord Police Chief, will serve as alternate. A committee member has yet to be named representing the Sibley Medical Center.
In other business, the Commissioners
• Were informed by Mielke that the CSAH 18 bridge project started two weeks later than expected.
• Rescinded a resolution to have a sale of two parcels containing nine lots in the City of New Auburn. Auditor Lisa Pfarr said that New Auburn is planning to acquire the parcels for public use.
• Approved resolutions for the continuation of the High Island Creek Water Assessment Project and the Rush River Water Assessment Project.
