Fannin County approves $36,360 consultant study to assess public-safety radio coverage
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Summary
The board approved a three-month needs assessment by Tucson Consulting for $36,360 to identify dead spots, recommend tower sites, and produce a roadmap for upgrading the county's public-safety radio system.
The Fannin County Board of Commissioners voted Oct. 14 to hire Tucson Consulting to perform a needs assessment of the county's public-safety radio system.
Patrick Cook, Fannin County's EMA director, and Joe Cuthner, 911 director, said the county's current system, whose core infrastructure dates to earlier installations, produces coverage gaps in buildings and remote areas. The proposed Phase 1 study, they said, will survey first responders, map dead spots, and provide scientific engineering analysis and a written plan for future upgrades. "This report will provide you guys with the scientific knowledge truly tested through electronics and engineering of what you need and where you need to put towers," a consultant said during the presentation.
Cost and schedule: Commissioners were told the Phase 1 assessment will cost $36,360 and take about three months. Phase 2, which would include procurement and bid support for equipment and tower work, would be optional and undertaken only after the board approves next steps.
Why this matters: Commissioners and staff said improved radio coverage affects ambulance, fire and law enforcement safety and interoperability in emergency incidents. Board members asked whether the study might identify the number of additional towers needed; consultant representatives said the assessment will determine that and provide a phased roadmap.
Outcome: Commissioner motion to approve the $36,360 study passed by voice vote.
