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IT director flags satellite-cellular developments and infrastructure upgrades for county facilities
Summary
Valley County27s IT director briefed commissioners on several infrastructure projects, including door-access work dependent on vendor schedules, an intercom for the transfer station and developments in satellite-cellular connectivity via a Starlink and T-Mobile partnership and iPhone satellite messaging.
Information Technology Director Jeremy told commissioners March 24 that his office is pursuing multiple technology upgrades and monitoring changes in satellite-to-cellphone connectivity that could affect county communications.
Jeremy said the county is seeking quotes for an electronic door-access project to reduce reliance on physical keys; the vendor that can do the work has a schedule filled through August but may be able to "squeeze in" a short job. He cautioned that Motorola vendor prices may rise in April because of tariffs, and that any quote presented now might change when work is scheduled.
Jeremy also said he is purchasing new cameras and an intercom for the transfer station to improve staff communications with drivers and to replace aging cameras that no longer work reliably.
On wider communications, Jeremy described two separate developments: (1) Starlink has a partnership with T-Mobile that allows more extensive cell-like coverage via satellite when paired with a T-Mobile phone and plan; and (2) Apple has added satellite-based texting to some newer iPhones using existing satellite networks (separate from the Starlink/T-Mobile partnership). He recommended county departments examine operational needs and consult IT when considering any new device or connectivity purchase.
No formal county action was taken. IT staff said they will continue procurement steps and return with quotes and timing information when vendor availability and final pricing are known.
