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Commissioners flag cost of encrypted mobile terminals for first responders; county may be asked to help finance
Summary
During commissioner reports, officials raised concern about the high cost of mobile digital terminals for public-safety agencies and federal encryption requirements; several commissioners said smaller local departments may need county help to pay for required equipment.
Commissioners flagged the cost of new mobile digital terminals and related equipment for police and fire agencies, noting federal requirements to encrypt certain mobile public-safety data and the resulting cost burden on smaller local units.
During commissioner reports, several commissioners said quotes for mobile terminals differed between police and fire agencies and that the equipment and encryption requirements carry significant price tags. Commissioners said some smaller local departments lack the resources to buy the equipment and that the county has already been approached about providing financial assistance. The board discussed continuing committee work to identify participants and funding options.
Commissioners described encryption of certain mobile data as a federal requirement that affects police mobile systems; the panel said encryption requirements have driven higher equipment costs. One commissioner said the county and its committees will keep the issue under review and schedule additional meetings with stakeholders to determine who will participate and how to finance the purchases.
