Jay County boards authorize final negotiations with Motorola for countywide radio system

Barry Ritter, owner of Ritter Strategic Services, told the Jay County Commissioners and County Council that two vendors were evaluated for a unified countywide radio system and that Motorola scored 0.96 out of 1.0 in the technical review while J&K Communications scored 0.42. "The communication system on the law enforcement side is in a critical state only being kept in operation by the current 900 MHz vendor," Ritter said, urging action to modernize equipment.

Council member Michael Brewster moved that the council proceed with Motorola Solutions for final negotiations subject to financing; Bryan Alexander seconded and the motion passed by majority vote (Harold Towell and Randy May opposed). Commissioner Duane Monroe moved the commissioners authorize final negotiations with Motorola; Doug Horn seconded and the motion passed unanimously. Officials noted Motorola's total project estimate was roughly $6.6–$7.1 million, including a large 15‑year warranty, while J&K's bid was higher and did not include land purchase costs. A Motorola representative explained financing options, saying their financing would have "payment one year in arrears from execution" and that buy‑down discounts or 7‑ or 10‑year term financing could be available.

Officials said final costs to each agency (sheriff, EMS, EMA, health, highway and some municipal departments) will depend on decisions about who purchases subscriber equipment and whether the county finances the full system. Commissioners asked Ritter to produce a spreadsheet of costs by agency and to explore possible savings by reducing certain highway requests and by siting a tower adjacent to the jail. The boards did not finalize contract terms; commissioners instructed staff to proceed with negotiated pricing and prepare agency-level cost allocations.