Explanation
BACKGROUND: This ordinance authorizes the Mayor of the City of Columbus to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Franklin County to establish a committee called the P-25 Digital Communications Governing Board and to continue the Central Ohio Communications Advisory Committee (COCAC) as the technical subcommittee of both the City and County's respective P-25 radio systems. This governing board will provide technical expertise and ensure that parity is maintained between the City and County radio systems. The governing board will also review the fee structure and approve recommendations of the COCAC committee. The governing board will consist of four total members; two each from the City and County.
Both the City of Columbus and Franklin County are in the process of converting their 800 MHz radio communication systems from analog to P-25 digital systems. The 800 MHz radio is the main public safety radio systems used by Police and Fire as well as the Public Service and Public Utilities Departments. Also, there are several other city and local agencies that use the 800 MHz radio systems. All of these radios will undergo the digital conversion to maintain interoperability communications with partners who are also expected to upgrade to the P-25 Digital System. At the present time both the City and County maintain analog 800 MHz radio systems and function as a backup communications for one another. In addition, each support several dozen radio systems of local jurisdictions.
Emergency Designation: Emergency legislation is necessary in order to ensure that the governing structure starts work as soon as possible.
FISCAL IMPACT: The governing structure has recommended an initial fee of $15.00/radio/month upon commencement of the digital conversion. These fees will be reviewed and revised annually. The City's share of the collected fees will be deposited in the General Fund as is the current practice for existing users.
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