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Denton approves purchase of replacement radios after Motorola support cutoff
Summary
After hearing that in-vehicle Motorola radios will no longer be supported after July 1, the council approved purchasing Kenwood radios and a spare portable, accepting a quote of $16,003.20 and instructing staff to complete the procurement.
The Denton Town Council approved the purchase of replacement in-vehicle radios for the police department and a spare portable after Chief Kennedy told council that the department’s Motorola radios will no longer be supported beginning July 1.
Chief Kennedy said the loss of in-service radios poses a safety risk for officers who rely on vehicle radios as a communications lifeline. "They'll actually be cut off or they will not work, starting July 1," the chief said, explaining the department's need to replace radios and add a spare portable to maintain reliable communications.
Staff presented multiple quotes; council discussed cost and longevity. Chief Kennedy noted the department has three portable Kenwoods already in use and recommended purchasing Kenwood mobile radios as a cost-saving alternative to Motorola. A councilor moved to buy Kenwood radios for $16,003.20; the motion was seconded and carried by voice vote.
Councilors and staff discussed lead times; the chief advised a two- to three-month turnaround for delivery and installation, and stressed the need to order promptly to avoid service interruptions.
Next steps: staff will finalize the purchase order and arrange installation and training for the new radios.
