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Commissioners approve four mobile radios using Title III search-and-rescue funds
Summary
The Wasco County Board approved purchase of four mobile radios for sheriff and search-and-rescue vehicles using $26,382.18 in Title III funds to complete the county’s radio upgrade project, which staff said has improved countywide communications.
The Wasco County Board of Commissioners approved use of Title III funds to buy four mobile radios to complete a recently upgraded digital radio system for the sheriff’s office and partner agencies.
Scott Williams of the sheriff’s office said the county has gone live on a digital radio system tied to the Oregon Department of Transportation and that the upgrade has “phenomenal” results for deputies, staff and partners. Williams said the improved system has extended range, helped search‑and‑rescue communications and reduced instances where officers could not hear across the county.
Williams asked the board to authorize Title III reimbursement for four remaining mobile radios for search‑and‑rescue and other vehicles. He described Title III as federal funds that “help us support our search and rescue so people can recreate in this county.” The board moved, seconded and approved a motion to purchase four mobile radios using $26,382.18 of Title III funds; commissioners voted aye and the motion passed unanimously.
Williams told the board the system has produced audible and operational improvements, and deputies have expressed relief at being able to hear across county boundaries. The board did not discuss any follow‑up contracting details at the meeting; staff indicated purchases would proceed under existing procurement and reimbursement procedures.
