Measure P committee backs $2.2 million in public‑safety radio, network and cybersecurity upgrades

The Measure P Oversight Committee voted May 14 to recommend that the City Council authorize Measure P funding to shore up public‑safety communications and infrastructure: $1,317,085 for the public‑safety radio system, $603,000 for replacement of critical network infrastructure and $300,000 for additional cybersecurity defenses.

Randy Heiser, public‑safety IT manager, described the radio system and core infrastructure as essential for real‑time communications among officers, firefighters and dispatchers. He said a loan tied to radios purchased in 2022 remains and that a portion of the radio core and consoles will need replacement; staff framed the spending as maintenance of critical emergency capabilities.

Public commenters, notably Jose Carrizales, questioned whether radio purchases and IT upgrades fit the nine Measure P priorities or should be general‑fund items. Staff responded that radios and network infrastructure enable fire protection, emergency medical response and police communications and argued the investments would be cost‑effective relative to operational risk.

Committee members pressed on lifecycle costs, lease terms and whether radios are included in maintenance agreements; staff said warranties have lapsed for many radios and that core console replacements and phone‑system modernization will be one‑time and recurring costs to be monitored.

Each of the three requests passed the committee by recorded votes and will be forwarded to the City Council for final action during the FY26‑27 budget process.