Vigo County commissioners approved a contract with Motorola to expand the county's public-safety radio and tower system after a split vote that ended 2to1 in favor.

County staff reported that the county council had appropriated money for the project earlier and that county legal review and negotiations reduced the contract amount. The contract is intended to improve radio coverage for sheriff, police and fire operations across the county.

During debate, one commissioner raised concerns about the size of the contract and the absence of competing bids, saying the county was facing a de facto monopoly. "I don't like that," the commissioner said, adding that Motorola had offered a discount that would expire if the board delayed approval. The same commissioner also noted support from public-safety leaders: "The sheriff supports it. The police chief supports it. The fire chief supports it," the commissioner said.

A county official who reviewed legal and training aspects of the agreement told the board modifications since October had reduced the contract and addressed service-area and equipment issues. The board recorded a voice vote and the chair announced the motion passed 2 to 1.

Next steps include contract finalization and scheduling of the implementation work; commissioners said they expect the project to proceed contingent on the council's continued funding commitment.