Title
Trunked Radio System (NB)
This item provides an update on progress identifying communication needs for the Trunked Radio System.
Explanation
During the Joint City County Commission meeting on December 7, 2015, the City Commission directed Gainesville Regional Utilities (GRU) to work with the users of the Trunked Radio System (TRS) to address the best long-term solutions for the radio system needs; directed staff to develop short-term solutions for any gaps in the current system; and authorized the Radio Management Board (RMB) to hire a consultant, with costs shared with Alachua County.
The RMB approved a scope of work with the GRU consultant, but it exceeded GRU’s contract with the vendor and a decision was made by the RMB to develop a substitute scope-of-work for the project. There were differences among the RMB on how best to proceed regarding short-term issues regarding system vulnerability and longer-term coverage and system considerations.
The Mayor, Chair, and Sheriff (sitting as the Combined Communications Executive Board) separated the issue into a two-question approach. The most immediate issue would be addressed by GRU’s consultant and the remaining issues by conducting a more comprehensive study.
The RMB has developed and approved a draft scope-of-work to capture its intent for the comprehensive study and is preparing the project to be bid by the County on behalf of the RMB.
Fiscal Note
Funding to hire a consultant has not been designated in the City’s FY17 Financial Operating Plan.
The City Manager will provide an update and recommendation once the anticipated cost to execute the study is determined.
Recommendation
The City Commission: 1) authorize the RMB to move forward with obtaining proposals for a consultant; and 2) direct the City Manager to report the anticipated cost to the Commission.