4/28/1994 - Laserfiche WebLink

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r boor 92 �uv 319 Bob Stork, owner of Communications International, has a contract with the County for maintenance of the existing communication equipment for the County. He pointed out that the existing equipment is a one -box, one -site system; and when that one box fails we are off the air, and people's lives are in danger. He stated that he sees all the problems that occur with ambulances, deputies, and fire trucks. He stated that the system was installed in 1976, and he predicted that the problems will only get worse. He felt certain that FCC Rule 88 will be enacted. Mr. Stork emphasized that, as a taxpayer, he does not want to see the County in the position of having to use ad valorem taxes to finance a new system because we did not take this opportunity to use sales tax monies that are available. He concluded by stating he has spoken to many concerned citizens who are in favor of a countywide 800 MHz system. Bill Tripp, representing the Vero Beach Firefighters, agreed that the safety of the citizens of the County is the most important consideration. The safety of the firefighters and paramedics also is of major importance, and their safety is being jeopardized by an inadequate communication system. Roland Wood, Vero Beach Deputy Chief of Police, stated that he was asked to attend today's meeting and advise the Board that the Vero Beach Police Department has tried to find funds to pay for the City of Vero Beach's portion of an 800 MHz system. However, their portion of the 1 cent sales tax has already been earmarked for the next 5 years. The Vero Beach Police Department wanted to get an 800 MHz system in 1986 when money was available, but could not get the commitment from the other law enforcement agencies so the plans were scrapped and the funds were spent on the system that the City currently is using. Earle Petty, Chief of Police, City of Sebastian, spoke in favor of the 800 MHz system. He pointed out that Indian River County has become an island of UHF and VHF equipment surrounded by counties with 800 MHz equipment, and that it is important to have a good communication system and to be compatible with other counties. Gary Wheeler, Indian River County Sheriff, felt that it would be a sound business decision for the County to purchase an 800 MHz system, because spending money to maintain the current system is throwing good money after bad. He pointed out that good communication equipment also cuts labor costs. 14