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Board approves purchase of multiband handheld radios for emergency responders after staff cites interoperability and cost savings
Summary
County staff recommended buying 45 L3Harris XL‑200 multiband handheld radios under a limited‑time promotion; the board approved the purchase and accessories for $137,272.50 and agreed to use the emergency services set‑aside fund to cover the cost.
County staff recommended purchasing 45 L3Harris XL‑200 multiband handheld radios to complete a countywide transition from single‑band radios and improve interoperability with neighboring jurisdictions. The board approved the purchase, accessories and required chargers at a revised total of $137,272.50.
Public safety staff explained that Middlesex operates on a 700 MHz system while many neighboring jurisdictions use 400 MHz UHF. County personnel said single‑band radios require messages to be relayed through dispatch during mutual‑aid incidents, slowing response and increasing risk. “This is not really a convenience. It's a matter of safety,” the public safety presenter said.
Staff provided a cost comparison: the original CIP estimate for completing portable upgrades and some mobiles was $250,857; the limited‑time L3Harris promotion reduces the portable radio portion to $121,455, with accessories ($15,817.50) bringing the total to $137,272.50 and yielding an estimated savings of about $113,584.50 compared with earlier estimates.
Supervisors discussed timing, the number of units required and future mobile upgrades; staff said the county will continue to pursue grants to offset mobile radio replacement but recommended accepting the promotional offer for portable units to finish frontline portable coverage.
The motion passed on roll call. Staff indicated they will appropriate funds from the JESI emergency services set‑aside and return with an appropriation at the next meeting.
