Rio Rancho council approves exit from regional communications JPA and upgrades radio consoles

The governing body approved a resolution and addendum to the San Juan County Regional Emergency Communications Center joint powers agreement that will allow Rio Rancho to exit the JPA and establish a standalone Rio Rancho Emergency Communication Center serving only city boundaries beginning July 1, 2025, subject to approval by the other JPA members. Deputy City Manager Wells said the addendum would divide the existing accumulated capital cash balance evenly; as of July 1, 2024, the balance was approximately $2.3 million and Rio Rancho had contributed about 50% of that amount. "The addendum splits this revenue evenly," Wells said, and staff noted final effect requires other member approvals under state law.

Council also approved a separate contract to Motorola Solutions to replace end-of-life radio consoles and modernize the communications center. The communications lead said the radio-console cost is about $870,000, currently budgeted in the FY25 police budget, and staff anticipates meeting a July 2025 target to switch over as the city prepares its standalone center. Councilors asked about installation timing and continuity; staff said consoles would be transitioned a few at a time to preserve operational connectivity.

Both the JPA addendum (R111) and the Motorola console contract (D73) were approved by roll call. Staff emphasized the approvals are steps in a multi-agency transition that remains subject to the other JPA members'formal actions.