Police warn radio network relies on fiber; ask board to reserve possible $57,000 local match for microwave backup

Captain Schneider of the Stonington Police Department told the Board of Finance the town's connection to the state radio network currently relies on fiber that can be severed by storms or accidents, and that the town is seeking a microwave link to provide a primary, resilient path.

Schneider explained that when the town first connected to the state network the site was tied by fiber, and that because of Stonington's location the usual microwave interconnections used on the state network are not available without adding a second shoot to an adjacent tower. He said an updated state quote totals about $230,000 for a microwave installation and associated studies (wind/load studies, leasing arrangements). Schneider asked the board to consider backing a 25% local match (approximately $57,000) if congressionally directed funding is awarded, noting the town would not know award results until the following January and money could be drawn from previously budgeted dispatch-console replacement funds if necessary.

Schneider framed the project as resiliency for public-safety communications: "If we were to lose that fiber communication, there is the potential... for us to lose this site here in our connectivity on our consoles and our dispatch center back to the state of Connecticut," he said. The board heard the briefing and no formal vote was taken on committing local funds; staff asked the board to consider reserving funds in next year's budget cycle if the award is made.

What happens next: staff will pursue the grant application process and report back if an award is made so the board can decide whether to appropriate a local match.