| Local
News |
||
| Wednesday,
March 12, 2008 Kathy's Korner by Kathy Marquardt In the February 20 issue of the INH there was an article reporting on a commissioners' work session at which there was discussion on purchasing a new 800 Mhz radio system for the sheriff's department. The new radio system was compared to the new TV digital signal system. Our TVs work fine as of now, but the new digital signal will enhance our viewing in the future. That is my understanding of what the upgrade will do for the radio system-enhance it. I believe we need the utmost in safety and security for our law enforcement officers, but spending $1.2 million to upgrade the current radio system seems a bit out of line to me. Part of the upgrade includes new radios costing as much as $2500 each for every officer on the force. The total estimated cost of the project does not include upgrading the radio systems of our local fire departments, hospitals or ambulances; and maintenance for the system is not included in the $1.2 million. Funding would be available for only approximately 50% of the project which would come from bonds and a limited amount of grants. Kudos to Commissioner Kircher for asking straight forward questions and questioning spending the taxpayers' dollars on this system. He also brought to light how the cost of this system will likely be charged back to the taxpayer in the form of higher fire calls, medical and ambulance costs. He also stated, "The state is very good at having a mess and not finishing it". I agree. This system is not required at this time. It is an initiative by the federal government to improve communications since the terrorist activities of 9-11. The question of the day is: Is it necessary? The final paragraph of the article says it all. "If the county didn't go with the 800 Mhz system, there would be inoperability plans to help work out the details so the gap between systems could be bridged and they would not have to go with the 800 Mhz plan." |