Emergency management seeks grants for radio upgrades and weather sirens in KIPP plan

St. Croix County officials are actively pursuing additional funding and grants to enhance public safety communications, particularly focusing on upgrading radio systems. During a recent meeting, discussions highlighted the importance of securing financial support for new radios, with emergency management staff, including Natasha, leading the charge in identifying potential grants.

One significant point raised was the county's decision to maintain the current weather siren and paging system. Officials noted that changing the specific channel would necessitate all end users to purchase new pagers, which would incur additional costs. Instead, the county plans to refresh the existing system when necessary, avoiding unnecessary expenses.

As part of their strategy, officials are preparing a Request for Proposal (RFP) for new infrastructure that will include a request for discounted rates on radios, both mobile and portable. They emphasized that bulk purchasing often leads to reduced prices, benefiting municipalities that rely on these communications tools.

Looking ahead, the timeline for implementing these upgrades is crucial. If approved, the project will span from 2027 to 2029, with 2029 being a pivotal year. The county must complete the construction of the Hammond Tower and relocate all equipment before the end of that year, as they will need to vacate the current site.

This proactive approach aims to ensure that St. Croix County's public safety communications remain effective and efficient, ultimately enhancing the safety and well-being of its residents.