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Berlin council approves emergency radio purchase after debate over training and pilot use
Summary
Council authorized immediate purchase of replacement L3Harris radios (~$19,813.50) to replace failing repurposed units used in snowstorms and emergency response; one councilor voted no, asking for a longer pilot period and more drills before committing to replacement units.
The Berlin Mayor and Council authorized the purchase of a replacement set of L3Harris emergency radios following a debate about reliability and training.
Staff said the town currently repurposes older police radios for public works and other departments but has seen failures in microphones and batteries that shorten operational time in prolonged responses. The quote presented included five units plus accessories for a total of about $19,813.50. Public works and emergency-management staff described frequent usage during recent snowstorms and said the radios tie into the town channel and enable coordinated responses with public safety partners.
Council Member Nichols asked for a pilot and more frequent drills before committing to new radios; staff said the existing devices are failing during active operations and recommended beginning a multi-year replacement cycle. Vice President Barrell and Council Member Green supported immediate purchase to ensure reliable field communications. The motion (moved by Vice President Barrell; seconded by Council Member Green) passed with three in favor and one opposed (Council Member Nichols). One council member was absent. The contract will be administered through the town's procurement process.
What's next: Staff will finalize procurement, put the radios into service and continue to coordinate joint training and drills with police and fire to improve interoperability.
