Minutes

Radio System User

DRAFT NOT APPROVED BY COMMITTEE

June 6, 2007

The meeting of the Radio System User Committee was called to order, by Chairman Paul D. Neumyer at 4:05 pm in Room 43 of the Justice Center of Ozaukee County, Port Washington. Roll Call was taken and present were committee members: Paul Neumyer (Chairman), Supervisor Gerald Walker, James L. Albrinck, David Harvey and Wendy Maechtle. Absent: Bill Tackes. Others in attendance: Supv. David W. Barrow III; Duane Willborn, General Communications; Shawn Anderson, Technology Resources; Rick Wollen, Mequon Fire Dept.; Mequon Fire Chief, David Bialk.

Per Chairman Neumyer, meeting was properly noticed. Item 9, New Business added and agenda was adopted.

Chairman Neumyer advised he had not received any public correspondence or communications.

Motion made by Supv. Walker, seconded by Jim Albrinck to approve the September 25, 2006 minutes as submitted. Motion carried.

Agenda item 5, ‘Update on the 800 MHZ Radio System Retrofit’. Shawn Anderson advised the work was progressing nicely. Significant work scheduled for the weeks of June 3 and June 17. Microwave work to be done the week of June 17, which will result in reduced portable radio coverage, but the mobile radios should not be affected. Radio Users will be notified prior to commencing the work. Once the work is started it cannot be stopped until completion. Duane Willborn advised the work is approximately 40 % complete. There was discussion on the UASI grant. There was discussion on the link between our Radio System and Milwaukee County’s Open Sky Radio System.

There was sidebar discussion on the Sprint Nextel re-banding, and where we are at this point. Shawn Anderson advised that Sprint Nextel was not responding/answering our County’s attorney’s communications.

Agenda item 6, ‘Review of Concordia University’s Access to the Radio System and their Request to be included in the Mequon Police Department’s Primary Talk Group’. Chairman Neumyer recapped Concordia University being allowed as a user on the 800-Radio System. Concordia University is now requesting access to Mequon Police Department’s primary talk group. Mequon PD’s command staff voted unanimously to reject their request.

Discussion ensued in regards to a private entity using a Public Safety radio system to conduct their business and how to monitor this. The policy of the Radio User Group has been to allow a private entity onto the system as a User as long as a Mutual Aid Agreement was in place between the private entity and a Public Safety Agency.

Sidebar discussion ensued on what Talk Groups should be programmed in portable and mobile radios. This decision would be dependent on the type of User. Duane Willborn recommended that we have written agreements in place between the agencies authorizing their talk groups to be programmed in specified users’ radios. Duane has a sample of such an agreement, and he will forward this sample agreement to the Radio User Group.

Motion made by Jim Albrinck, seconded by Supv. Walker the Radio User Group should obtain a talk group consent form for review and possible implementation. Motion carried.

Agenda item 7, ‘Request for Recommendations for Committee Appointment’. The Group determined that Chairman Neumyer will contact the Chief of Police Association for recommendations and forward the recommendations to the Radio User Group. The Radio User Group would then forward their selection for the appointment to the County Administrator, Tom Meaux.

Motion made by Chief Harvey, seconded by Jim Albrinck the Chairman of the Radio User Group is to make the selection recommendation to the County Adminstrator for the replacement for the open Law Enforcement position on the Radio User Group. Motion carried.

Agenda item 8, ‘Informational Items of Daily Test Pages’. There was discussion of airing non-emergent informational items during the daily test pages of the Fire and EMS departments. Different technological options were discussed to disseminate non-emergent informational items to Fire and EMS departmental members in lieu of airing these items during the daily test pages. It was determined that at the present time, the practice of airing non-emergent informational items during daily test pages would continue.

Additional agenda item, ‘New Business’.

Mequon Fire Chief, David Bialk, led discussion on programming MABAS 800 talk groups into Fire and EMS radios.

Chief Harvey led discussion in regards to accessing the recordings of the 800-Radio System off of the Sheriff’s department recording system for training purposes for his Department, as well as alternate options to capture these recordings.

Chief Harvey and Shawn Anderson discussed the use of a ‘Fleet Call’ to alert all Fire/EMS personnel of a safety issue, when deployed to a call.

There was discussion by the Committee members on a possible meeting after Labor Day.

There being no further business, motion by Jim Albrinck, seconded by Supv. Walker to adjourn at 5:50 p.m. Motion carried.

Cc: County Clerk

Agenda & Minutes Distribution List

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September 25, 2006

The meeting of the Radio System User Committee was called to order, by Chairman Paul D. Neumyer at 3:00 pm in Room 43 of the Justice Center of Ozaukee County, Port Washington. Roll Call was taken and present were committee members: Paul Neumyer (Chairman), Supervisor Gerald Walker, James L. Albrinck, Dennis Kasprzak, Bill Tackes, David Harvey and Wendy Maechtle. Others in attendance: County Administrator, Tom Meaux; Supv. David W. Barrow III; Mary Fitzgerald, Emergency Management; Patty Ruth, Public Health; Duane Willborn and Shawn Anderson, Technology Resources; Mario Valdes, Concordia University Security; John Tramburg and Bob Cluka, General Communications.

Per Chairman Neumyer, meeting was properly noticed and agenda was adopted.

Chairman Neumyer noted that he had received correspondence from Ohana Ambulance, which would be discussed under item 5 of the agenda.

Motion by Jim Albrinck and seconded by Dennis Kasprzak to approve the June 20, 2006 minutes as submitted. Motion carried.

The following discussion took place on Agenda item 5, the request by Ohana Ambulance Service to be allowed access to the radio system:

Duane Willborn advised the committee members that Ohana currently has 800 radios and they have a signed mutual aid agreement with Waubeka fire department. This committee has allowed private entities who have been contracted by current 800 radio users for use of their services onto the radio system to ensure that the contracting 800 radio user can communicate with the private entity.

David Harvey advised that Ohana is working with all the other fire/ems agencies in Ozaukee County on Mutual Aid Agreements/contracts.

Jim Albrinck led discussion on what Ohana’s radio call number would be if allowed onto the radio system.

Motion by David Harvey and seconded by Jim Albrinck to allow Ohana Ambulance on the 800 radio system. Motion carried.

There was further discussion on the radio call number assignment for Ohana Ambulance.

Motion by Dennis Kasprzak and seconded by Supv. Jerry Walker to have Ohana Ambulance contract the Waubeka fire chief to make the determination of Ohana’s radio call number assignment, and to notify the radio tech and Ozaukee Dispatch of the number assigned. No further discussion. Motion carried.

The following discussion took place on Agenda item 6, Request by Concordia University to be allowed access to the radio system:

Duane Willborn advised the committee that a Memorandum of Understanding is in place between Concordia University and Ozaukee County Public Health Department appointing Concordia University as a County mass casualty site, vaccine distribution site and mass inoculation clinic/site.

Patty Ruth of Public Health spoke to the Committee on the necessity of communications between Concordia security personnel on site, law enforcement, fire and EMS personnel the duration of activation of the site.

Jim Albrinck offered the option of the use of the amateur radio users during site activation. Patty Ruth acknowledged that they are already utilized.

Motion by Dennis Kasprzak and seconded by Wendy Maechtle to allow Concordia University security on the 800 radio system. Further discussion followed.

David Harvey advised the committee of his concerns of radio air time during high use, and that law enforcement, fire and EMS receive a higher priority queuing; he is also concerned that we a providing a radio system for a private company to perform their day-to-day business.

Duane Willborn advised that only Concordia Security officers with a total of 6 radios would be using one talk group, and no maintenance personnel would have a radio/access to the radio system.

Mario Valdes reiterated that only Concordia Security personnel would be on the system.

Jim Albrinck and David Harvey reiterated their concern of allowing a private entity running their business on the 800 radio system.

Chairman Neumyer addressed his concerns with radio users scanning talk groups, which they shouldn’t be on.

Chairman Neumyer further stated that Mequon Police and Concordia Security have already had discussions on the types of calls that Concordia Security should be calling Mequon Police for assistance using the radio as opposed to using the phone, and when contacting Mequon Police or Ozaukee Sheriff via radio they are to do so over "OZS COMM" only.

No further discussion, voice vote taken, 6 Ayes, 1 Nay, motion carried.

The following discussion took place on Agenda Item 7, Consideration of going to "Clear Text" Replacing 10-Codes:

David Harvey advised the committee that "Clear Text" in lieu of 10-codes is federally mandated per NIMS.

Chairman Neumyer stated that he is concerned with officer safety, when using "Clear Text" in the presence of a suspect as opposed to the use of 10-codes.

Further discussion between committee members identified that the use of "Clear Text" would benefit fire and EMS personnel who do not use the radio system on a daily basis and are unfamiliar with 10-codes, and the flip side for law enforcement personnel who do use the radio system daily and are familiar with the 10-codes that "Clear Text" could be a detriment to their daily operations.

It was questioned if our User Group had the authority to dictate to law enforcement, fire and EMS personnel that they need to go to "Clear Text", and if this has actually been mandated, as there have been discussions back and forth between radio users and the Federal Government on this issue.

Chairman Neumyer deferred to Emergency Management to confirm that "Clear Text" has now been mandated, and if so does the mandate include law enforcement personnel. Chairman Neumyer asked Emergency Management to contact himself or committee member, Wendy Maechtle with their findings on the mandate. If this has now become an official mandate, our Group will issue and advisement to the radio users in regards to the use of "Clear Text" in lieu of 10-codes, and how this could have an impact on any future federal grant monies.

New Business:

David Harvey questioned Duane Willborn on the status of the re-banding project. Duane advised the committee that Sprint/Nextel has requested a freeze on the re-banding for 2 years. Duane also explained the process of replacing the radios with like in kind radios, and the cost that would be covered by Sprint/Nextel.

Committee members thanked Duane Willborn for his excellent service to the radio users and the User Group over the years, which included the following comments:

Jim Albrinck thanked Duane for all his efforts over the years. Jim also expressed concern over what would happen with the upgrade to the radio system backbone project for 2007. John Tramburg from General Communications advised the Committee that Duane would be the Project Manager for the upgrade, and fully involved in the upgrade.

David Harvey asked County Administrator, Tom Meaux about Duane’s replacement. Tom Meaux advised that currently there are no plans to fill the position that the County was working closely with General Communications to contract for Duane’s services on the upcoming projects.

Dennis Kasprzak advised Tom Meaux that the radio system blossomed under Duane Willborn. That Grafton PD had issues with the system, when it was first installed that the system was unreliable, regular maintenance was not accomplished, user needs were not being addressed, which drove Grafton PD’s decision not to come onto the system. Since Duane took over the job, and worked hard at addressing the issues and maintaining the system there was no hesitation to make the decision to come onto the radio system, when their new Chief came on board, and addressed this with the staff.

Chairman Neumyer reiterated Dennis Kasprzak’s sentiments, and stressed to Tom Meaux that we have a top-notch radio system in Ozaukee County, not just state-wide but on a national level as well. Chairman Neumyer stated that through his attendance at conferences he has encountered much larger agencies seeking interoperability with their radio systems that Ozaukee County has already implemented and utilize. Chairman Neumyer credits this to Duane’s technological expertise, approachability and accessibility with the radio users, listening and addressing the radio users’ needs, and he hopes that this level and quality of service won’t be compromised.

Tom Meaux assured the Committee that County Board Chairman Brooks and he are diligently working to ensure that the same level of quality and service is maintained, if not improved on.

Wendy Maechtle thanked Duane for his support and efforts to the Dispatch Center over the years, and stated that he would be greatly missed. Maechtle further stated that not only was this a devastating loss to the Sheriff’s Dispatch Center, but Duane was well respected outside the scope of Ozaukee County, and news of his resignation were generating outside agency comments and concerns. Maechtle stated that Duane fostered cooperation between not only Ozaukee County agencies, but cooperation between Ozaukee County and surrounding counties.

Jim Albrinck informed the Committee that the Life Pack 12 Unit defibrillator requires a specific type of cell phone for operation, and he could provide the radio users with more information if they wished to contact him on this.

The Committee agreed to look at meeting sometime mid-January 2007.

There being no further business, motion by Kasprzak, seconded by Supv. Walker to adjourn at 4:28 p.m. Motion carried.

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RADIO USER GROUP COMMITTEE

June 20, 2006

Item 1: Call to Order

The meeting of the Radio User Committee was called to order by Chairman Paul D. Neumyer, at 3:06PM, in room 240 of the Justice Center of Ozaukee County, Port Washington, Wisconsin.

Roll call was taken and present were committee members: Paul Neumyer (Chairman), Supervisor Gerald Walker, James L. Albrinck, Dennis Kasprzak, Bill Tackes, and Fire Chief Dave Harvey. Excused was Wendy Maechtle. Others in attendance: Supervisor David W. Barrow III, Sheriff Maury Straub, Shawn Anderson and Mr. Mario Valdes, Security Director of Concordia University.

Item 2:

Per Chairman Neumyer the meeting has been properly noticed and the agenda was adopted.

Item 3:

Public Comments/Correspondence and Communications. Security Director Mario Valdes was present in order to speak to the Committee regarding Concordia University to be allowed access to the county-wide radio system. As this request had already been noticed on the agenda later in the meeting, Mr. Valdes was asked to speak on the matter when the item would be called later in the meeting.

Item 4:

Approval of Minutes. Dennis Kasprzak motioned to have the minutes of August 04, 2005 approved as submitted. This was seconded by Jim Albrinck. Motion carried.

Item 5:

Review of Radio System Backbone and Data Link. Shawn Anderson read the discussion on the Radio System Backbone and Data Link upgrades, which are currently taking place. According to Shawn Anderson, our (EDACS) system will be GPS simulcast system. It will also have P25 capability which can be enabled at a later date.

Item 6:

Request by Concordia University to be allowed access to the county-wide radio system. Chairman Neumyer started out and lead the discussion explaining that Concordia University has, over the past several months, been testing radios provided to them by Ozaukee County Radio Service Unit. Concordia University currently has a satellite repeater for the 800 system, which was installed two years ago, prior to President Bush's visit to our County for the graduation ceremonies at Concordia. This repeater system was also installed due to the fact that Concordia is the mass-casualty site for the Ozaukee County Public Health Department and the overflow site for Columbia St. Mary's Ozaukee, which is directly west of Concordia University. With this in mind, Concordia University Security staff does have occasion to interact with various public entities. Specifically, the Mequon Police Department, the Mequon Fire Department, and Ozaukee County Sheriffs Department, when we do have large situations which would require the University to open its campus up for this purpose. Concordia University currently has an older high-band radio system, which is failing, therefore, they are requesting to come onto the 800 Trunk Radio System in order to meet their needs and to be able to have inter-operability with the various public agencies which may find their selves on their campus due to man made or natural disasters. Chairman Neumyer went on to explain that the position of the Mequon Police and Fire Department was that we have no objections to them coming onto the system, however, we would not be in favor of them having direct access to our Police or Fire primary talk groups. They would be allowed, however, to have Ozaukee COM, which they could contact the Sheriff's Department or Mequon Dispatch if they needed assistance from our agencies.

Ozaukee County Sheriff Maury Straub spoke to the issue stating he sees it as a benefit to both Law Enforcement and Fire Service to have the Concordia University Security Service on the County Wide Radio System. Sheriff Straub went on to say he could not see any detriment to having them on the system, but he thought in fact that it would compliment both Law Enforcement, Fire and the Security Service of Concordia.

Mr. Mario Valdes, Director of Security for Concordia University spoke to the issue, indicating that Concordia's current population is approximately 1200 students during the regular school year, which runs from September through May in a calendar year. In addition to the normal school population, they also have adult education classes that take place at night until 10:00 – 11:00 in the evening. Concordia is also in the process of building additional dormitory space which will again increase the resident student population, with increased demands on the Security Force run by Concordia. Mr. Valdes went on to say in testing the radio they found it an attribute for them having good coverage everywhere on the University property and also giving them the option of contacting emergency services or working with emergency services if they are called to the campus. Additionally, in the near future, more likely calendar year 2007, the bluff along Lake Michigan, which is on the eastern boundary of Concordia property, will be open to the public to allow access to the Lake Michigan shoreline and beach area.

Committee Member Albrinck raised the question, "Can we allow Concordia on the County Wide Radio System as it is a private entity?" Committee Member Albrinck further stated that in the past we have disallowed other requests from private entities to come onto the system as they were not part of a Governmental Unit.

Committee Member Kasprzak raised the question, "If Concordia is a private entity, are we opening the flood gates to other private individuals or entities to also come onto the system?"

Chief Harvey questioned whether they would have their own talk group or would they be sharing either the Mequon Police or Fire Department talk groups? Shawn Anderson responded that they currently have been testing their talk group we issued them and that in fact would be their permanent talk group if the Committee sought to allow them on the system.

Supervisor Barrow, in attendance, requested to speak to the matter at hand. Supervisor Barrow offered the suggestion that Concordia Security Officers become part of the Mequon Police Reserves, which would leave the Radio Users Group out of the question entirely. This would depend on whether Chief Graff and Acting Chief Neman would approve such an arrangement with Chief Graff being the deciding factor, being head of the Police Department. Chairman Neumyer response to that was that it is a policy question and something that would have to be answered by Chief Graff. It was his impression that probably would not be an option, as the City would then become liable for any and all actions of Concordia Security staff, as they would become part of the Mequon Reserve Unit, which is controlled by the Police Department.

Committee Member Albrinck re-stated that Concordia is a private entity like any business and with that in mind, Concordia needs to maintain their own private radio system as any private business would that needs such a service. Mr. Albrinck suggested that the Committee ask the Corporation Counsel for an opinion to be fair to everyone concerned.

Committee Member Harvey also questioned this matter without the advice of Corporation Counsel and that we should possibly consult with Ozaukee County Corporation Counsel before we approve or disapprove this request. After further discussion, the Committee decided that it was not necessary at this time to consult with Corporation Counsel, but that the decision should remain with the Radio Users Group with that authority vested in us to approve or disapprove entry onto the system. Committee Member Kasprzak then made a motion to table any decision allowing Concordia to come onto the system and that if Concordia could come to some agreement with either the Mequon Police Department or The Ozaukee County Sheriffs Department., they could come onto the system under their talk groups. Second by Supervisor Walker to table the motion. A vote by the Committee was unanimous to table it and the item would be taken back up again in our September meeting, at which time Mr. Valdes was invited to return and made a presentation again and this also would give the Committee time to research the matter.

Item 7:

Status of Training for Back-Up Procedures: Chairman Neumyer spoke to this. His apologies to the Committee we were unable to meet with a Sub-Committee, due to other obligations by the Sub-Committee members. A tentative date for the Sub-Committee will be discussed at the September Radio User Group Committee meeting.

At approximately 5:00PM, the Chair asked for a motion to adjourn, seconded by Committee member Kasprzak. Committee as a whole was unanimous for adjournment. Adjournment set. Next meeting is tentatively scheduled for the week of September 11, 2007.

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August 4, 2005

The meeting of the Radio System User Committee was called to order, by Chairman Paul D. Neumyer at 1:10pm in Room 240 of the Justice Center of Ozaukee County, Port Washington. Roll Call was taken and present were committee members: Paul Neumyer (Chairman), Supervisor Gerald Walker, James L. Albrinck, Dennis Kasprzak, Bill Tackes, Wendy Maechtle and Ervin Helms, proxy for Committee Member, William Rausch. Excused: William Rausch. Others in attendance: Supv. David W. Barrow III, Lt.Rodney Galbraith-Ozaukee County Sheriff, Duane Willborn and Shawn Anderson.

Per Chairman Neumyer, meeting was properly noticed and agenda was adopted.

Discussion on communications received by Chairman Neumyer in reference to Thiensville fire department’s paramedic unit’s designation from Med 5 to Med 551, Med 552, etc., to coincide with the current numbering protocol of the Radio System.

Motion by Supv. Walker and seconded by Dennis Kasprzak to approve the September 24, 2004 minutes as submitted. Motion carried.

Duane Willborn led the discussion on the Radio System Backbone Upgrade approved by the County Board. Willborn and Corp Counsel, Kenealy, are working with the Consultant on the terms of the contract for the Backbone work. The Finance Dept. wants the monies expended for this project by the end of 2005.

The Upgrade is to be done in three phases: Phase 1 – Antennas and Buildings; Phase 2 – Antennas and Coverage; Phase 3 – Shelters. The only change to the end-user will be improved coverage in current trouble spots – Harrington Beach, Newburg, southeast county trouble spots and the southwest corner of Mequon.

Discussion on Phase 3, Shelters that the majority of the work would be accomplished by the County’s highway department – site surveys, pouring cement foundation to get shelter off of gravel, redo fencing, etc. Structures will be concrete as opposed to wood.

Discussion was held on Mee-Kwon tower modification to enable coverage in trouble spot being the southwest corner of Mequon.

Discussion was held on the communication link between the City of Milwaukee radio system and Ozaukee County’s EDACS system.

Discussion was held on Nextel’s rebanding project. Our radio system’s trunked channels will not be moved. Nextel has not made any final decisions on their rebanding project, so all radio users are urged to hang on to replaced radio equipment in lieu of liquidating these items.

Discussion was held on the communication link between Washington County’s radio system and Ozaukee County’s EDACS system. RCC is the consultant who won the bid to do a needs-assessment of Washington County’s radio system. There is strong interest to link these two radio systems.

Discussion was held on Radio Back-Up procedures. Moved by Kasprzak, Seconded by Walker to create subcommittee to establish emergency procedures in the event of a radio system failure. Motion carried. Subcommittee named, Neumyer, Maechtle, Walker and Albrinck.

There being no further business, motion by Kasprzak, seconded by Helms to adjourn at 2:39 p.m. Motion carried.

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September 24, 2004

The meeting of the Radio System User Committee was called to order, by Chairman Paul D. Neumyer at 8:41am in Room 45 of the Justice Center of Ozaukee County, Port Washington. Roll Call was taken and present were committee members: Paul Neumyer (Chairman), William F. Rausch, Supervisor Gerald Walker, James L. Albrinck, Dennis Kasprzak, Bill Tackes and Wendy Maechtle. Others in attendance: Duane Willborn, Blake Reichgeld, Shawn Anderson and Bob Cluka.

Fire Chief Rausch introduced Deputy Fire Chief Blake Reichgeld to the User Group.

Motion by Dennis Kasprzak and seconded by James Albrinck to approve the May 27, 2004 minutes as submitted. Motion carried.

James Albrinck initiated discussion on the possibility of the Cedarburg School District joining the Radio System. Cedarburg PD feels this would be beneficial in the event of a major incident occurring in the District, i.e. bomb scare, etc. Only Cedarburg police and fire would have the School District talk group programmed on their radios.

Supv. Walker asked how many radios the School District would need, and James Albrinck advised between 20-30. Duane Willborn advised that there was plenty room on the system for another user as the system is only at 10% capacity. Bill Tackes advised that it is a great idea. The School District being a public entity is an allowable user of the radio system, whereas private entities are not. Duane Willborn advised that this is an excellent idea for Homeland Security and Interoperability. Dennis Kasprzak voiced concern of the possibility of a higher rate of queuing on the radio system during a major incident, which generated discussion on training radio users on proper protocol. Supv. Walker advised that the School District would have access to Homeland Security monies for the purchase of the radios.

A motion by Dennis Kasprzak, and seconded by Supv. Walker to advise the Cedarburg School District that there is room on the Radio System, and allowing them to pursue the means to join the Radio System. Motion carried.

Blake Reichgeld initiated discussion on the Thiensville Fire Department’s rescue squad changing their radio call sign. On August 1, 2004, the Thiensville rescue squad attained paramedic service status, which is the first paramedic unit for Ozaukee County. As such, the Ozaukee County EMS Medical Director, Dr. Dennis Laundrie, issued the rescue squad a new unit identifier of "Med 5", which is commonly done state-wide, but has created concern with the radio system users.

Blake Reichgeld was unaware of the Radio User Group’s existence, and therefore was unaware that the Group needs to approve the change of a radio call sign. Chief Rausch has ordered the paramedic unit not to use the newly assigned identifier of "Med 5" until such time as approved by the Radio User Group. Blake Reichgeld advised that communications between the hospital, fire and EMS personnel are clarified with the designation of "Med" for the rescue unit.

Chairman Neumyer recommended the use of "Med" in front of their current radio call signs, i.e. Med 551, Med 552. As the Sheriff’s Department has been issued the use of the numbers 1-99 for radio call sign purposes. James Albrinck advised that the use of "Med" in front of the current assigned radio call number would eliminate confusion on the Radio System, that the users should adhere to the numbering system established. Chairman Neumyer advised radio discipline should be maintained with the increase of interoperability.

Blake Reichgeld advised that a letter would need to be sent to the Ozaukee County EMS Medical Director by the Radio User Group recommending the change in the designator to Med 550, 551, and 552. The Medical Director would sign-off on the recommendation, and Blake would forward the correction to the State. Chairman Neumyer will call the Medical Director and follow-up with the letter of recommendation.

A motion by James Albrinck, and seconded by Bill Tackes to have Chairman Neumyer call the Ozaukee County EMS Medical Director and follow-up with written communication if necessary to recommend a change to the issued designator of "Med 5" to "Med" 550, 551 or 552 as appropriate. Motion carried.

Discussion was held on the Radio System Back-up Protocol. Chairman Neumyer and Wendy Maechtle will present a protocol outline to the Group at our next meeting for possible implementation to be distributed to all system users of a procedure to use in the event of a radio system failure. Further discussion was held on actual drills to be conducted, where the radio system would be placed in failure mode, and users would follow the protocol to reestablish communications.

Duane Willborn initiated discussion on the status of general system updates. The Technology Resources committee approved the replacement of the radio system backbone. Consultants will be brought in to assess the system and outline a step-by-step replacement plan over a six-year period. 30 base stations and 80 GE trunking shelves are scheduled for replacement. We will be staying with the EDACS system as opposed to moving to Open Sky due to the problems with voice over IP. Our system may end up with a couple of Open Sky channels for pushing data.

Milwaukee PD and Ozaukee County Sheriff have entered into a COPS grant for an interoperability link between the two agencies. Duane is working with Sam Steffen of Milwaukee PD on this project.

Other items discussed:

James Albrinck polled the fire chiefs for radio system needs. Belgium fire chief requested improved lake front communications. Duane Willborn advised that two amplifiers were purchased with Homeland Security monies, and will be installed, one pointing north and one pointing south to remedy the coverage issues on the lake front. Duane Willborn has also directed the consultants to work on radio system coverage.

James Albrinck advised the User Group of devices, which jam cell phones, pagers and 800 radios from transmitting that are being installed in buildings to prevent the interruption of performances, such as movie theatres, concert halls, etc., which he feels that the User Group needs to be aware of.

Supv. Walker questioned if a County Ordinance could be passed, which would prevent municipalities from allowing the installation of these jamming devices. Duane Willborn questioned if we want to prevent the installation or have an easily accessible override button for the device? Shawn Anderson advised the User Group that Kansas City has an ordinance mandating in-building amplifiers.

James Albrinck discussed the possibility of having the County write the grant for any monies available for the replacement of radios on a countywide level. Duane Willborn advised that these requests should be directed to Emergency Management and the Homeland Security committee.

Dennis Kasprzak would like users to update Duane on radio assignments. Problems were discussed with 800 portables ending up in the wrong hands, and being able to identify who was assigned a particular radio for contact purposes would be beneficial in these cases.

A motion by Dennis Kasprzak, and seconded by Chairman Neumyer that a letter be drafted and sent to all radio users requesting that radio assignment information be forwarded to Duane Willborn via fax or e-mail. Motion carried.

Further radio protocol issues were discussed.

There being no further business, James Albrinck motioned and seconded by Supv. Walker to adjourn at 10:30am.

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May 27, 2004

The meeting of the Radio System User Committee was called to order, by Chairman Paul D. Neumyer at 8:30am in Room 45 of the Justice Center of Ozaukee County, Port Washington. Roll Call was taken and present were committee members: Paul Neumyer (Chairman), William F. Rausch, Supervisor Gerald Walker, Bill Tackes, Wendy Maechtle and Dennis Kasprzak. Others in attendance: Duane Willborn and Ervin Helms.

Motion by Dennis Kasprzak and seconded by William Rausch to approve the December 19, 2003 minutes as submitted. Motion carried.

Duane Willborn reviewed the upcoming re-programming for talk groups. In reference to the fire "CHFS" talk group being replaced with "OZS COMM" talk group.

Committee member, James L. Albrinck, arrived at 8:49am.

Duane Willborn updated the committee on the Mequon Department of Public Works transition to the 800-radio system. Mr. Willborn has not been advised of any problems, nor is he aware of any problems with the transition.

Duane Willborn has been appointed the representative of the Wisconsin Interoperability Committee on Radio & Tower Systems (WICORTS) to the Southeast Wisconsin Communications Resource/Support Group (SWCRSG). A group formed of southeast Wisconsin law enforcement agencies and Wisconsin State Patrol for interoperability purposes.

Discussion on President George W. Bush’s visit to Concordia College was held. The cost to the community and law enforcement agencies was brought up. There was discussion on the interaction with the Secret Service. Interoperability was covered, and the consensus was no problems were encountered. A few operator errors were encountered and quickly corrected. The end-users were very pleased with the overall interoperability of the radio system.

Radio system performance during the May 21, 2004 storm was discussed. Per Duane Willborn, approximately 200 "queued" transmissions for no more than 2 seconds occurred during the storm related radio traffic. No complaints from end-users were received due to these "queued" transmissions.

Discussion on Grafton PD joining the 800-radio system was held. Dennis Kasprzak advised that there have been no problems, and wanted to bring to the committee’s attention Duane Willborn’s part in the smooth transition. Dennis advised that Duane had been very accommodating and helpful.

Introduction of Supervisor Gerald Walker, new committee member from the County Board was made.

Other Items:

Committee member, James Albrinck brought up discussion on why the 800 radios are not intrinsically safe. Users have not voiced concern with this issue. The cost to make the radios intrinsically safe would be $200.00 per radio.

Committee member, James Albrinck shared information on their agency’s recent purchase of new 800 radios. Wanted committee to be aware and take back to their respective groups that when purchasing new radios, you must specify everything that you want on the radio, nothing should be assumed, and it would be best to get together with Duane Willborn prior to ordering.

Duane Willborn reviewed his adventures in Van Couver at the annual EDACS Conference with the committee. Changes in the backbone of the radio system will be implemented. Elimination of the Site Controller is planned. A new feature of an IP gateway was introduced. Open Sky is still good for data, but still not up to speed with voice.

Committee member, James Albrinck advised the committee that 800 radios and programming are available for purchase on E-Bay. This can be a problem if an unauthorized person gains access to a radio of our system, and in turn downloads the programming onto a purchased 800 radio off E-Bay. Committee members should remind their respective end users to immediately report any missing inventory to Duane Willborn.

Duane Willborn asked the committee to remind their respective users to notify him of any personal purchased radios as to what programming it should have. Duane should also be notified when any user leaves employment with a programmed personally owned 800-radio so that proper reprogramming can be done.

Discussion by the committee on issuing an 800-radio system failure policy, as well as a policy on protocol during an emergency situation, i.e., use of special calls, emergency radio traffic only, etc.

Discussion by the committee was held on how many times to meet as a committee each year. Two meetings per year will be scheduled, and any other meetings to be called as the need arises. The next meeting will be scheduled in mid-October.

There being no further business, James Albrinck motioned and seconded by Supervisor Gerald Walker to adjourn at 10:32am.

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December 19, 2003

The meeting of the Radio System User Committee was called to order, by Chairman Paul D. Neumyer at 8:33 AM in Room 45 of the Justice Center of Ozaukee County Port Washington. Roll Call was taken and present were Paul Neumyer (Chairman), William F. Rausch, James L. Albrinck, Bill Tackes, Wendy Maechtle, Dennis Kasprzak and Gus Wirth Jr. Also present Duane Willborn, Shawn Anderson, Ervin Helms and Bob Cluka.

Motion by Gus Wirth Jr. seconded by Dennis Kasprzak to approve the June 26, 2003 minutes as submitted. Motion carried.

Duane Willborn gave an update on Homeland Security/Interoperability:

All items ordered for Homeland Security have arrived: 1) An amplifier to be installed at Harrington Beach to improve radio coverage both north and south along the beach; 2) In building repeaters to improve radio coverage inside buildings, which have historical coverage problems. Schools will receive first priority then public buildings. Steel structured buildings will not benefit from these repeaters, so they will not be considered, when determining where the repeaters should be installed; 3) In building cell coverage to enhance the ability of receiving a signal for use of cell phones.

Radio Users should contact Ozaukee County Emergency Management Director, Bill Stolte, to identify buildings with coverage problems, which would benefit from the installation of a repeater as soon as possible to facilitate the process.

Interoperability items: 1) A mobile repeater has been acquired to assist with out of county events. This repeater can be requested for use through the Ozaukee County Emergency Management department; 2) License acquired for a new Mutual Aide station; 3) Mobile Data Browsers installed at each agency with rollout expected in February 2004; 4) 8 new VHF frequencies with 4 Mutual Aide channels of Marc 1, Marc 2 (for car-to-car), Fire Comm and WISPERN with rollout expected in June-July 2004. Ozaukee County Sheriff’s department will have fire/EMS simulcast capability; 5) New Flight for Life base station.

Discussion was held on a radio system-wide user drill on what to do in the event of a system failure. Protocol to be drafted and distributed to the system users prior to any coordinated drill is conducted.

Duane Willborn informed the Committee that the City of Milwaukee is very interested in interoperability with Ozaukee County. The City of Milwaukee has gone to a new radio system, Open Sky EDACS through MACOM. Currently they are in phase one, data only. Phase two will bring the public safety onto the system. Phase 3 fire/EMS onto the system. In phase 4 the DPW and other services will be brought onto the system. Kenosha County is looking at the same system. There may be a time, when an Ozaukee County deputy can drive to Chicago and be in constant communication with his dispatch.

Duane Willborn updated the committee on the change to the OZS DISP talk group. Sheriff Straub, after meeting with the Ozaukee county fire chiefs, is allowing the OZS DISP talk group to remain on all fire/EMS mobiles, and command officers’ portables. A list of radio numbers from each fire department was provided to Mr. Willborn for programming purposes.

Other business brought before the committee:

Duane Willborn brought up that there is an occasional problem with the site controller at the Justice Center site, which is being monitored. There will be a scheduled maintenance on the site controller, which will require all radio users to move to the Mutual Aide channels. This maintenance has not been scheduled as of yet.

Duane Willborn advised that Ozaukee County Emergency Management has depleted their assigned radio LID number series of 960-980 and have been moved to the 10600 series. Radio call numbers will remain the same.

Discussion was held on the FCC rebanding the 800 radio frequencies. Duane Willborn stated the FCC had not made a decision, but they were open to comments.

Discussion was held on the new Open Sky system protocol.

There being no further business, James Albrinck motioned and seconded by William Rausch to adjourn at 9:52 AM.

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June 26, 2003 

The meeting of the Radio System User Committee was called to order, by Chairman Paul D. Neumyer at 10:15 AM in Room 45 of the Justice Center of Ozaukee County Port Washington. Roll Call was taken and present were Paul Neumyer (Chairman), William F. Rausch, James L. Albrinck, Bill Tackes, Wendy Maechtle and Gus Wirth Jr. Excused absent was Dennis Kasprzak. Also present Duane Willborn, Shawn Anderson, Lt. Rodney Galbraith, William Stolte and Jack Morrison. 

Motion by Gus Wirth Jr. seconded by James Albrinck to approve the June 17, 2002 minutes as submitted. Motion carried. 

Discussion on Silver Creek Fire Department’s request to be able to get on the Ozaukee County 800 Radio System. 

Motion by James Albrinck seconded by William Rausch to permit Silver Creek Fire Department to use the Ozaukee County 800 Radio System. Motion passed. Record to reflect that the Silver Creek Fire Department radios will be programmed with full fire fleet talk groups. 

Chairman Neumyer to contact Silver Creek Assistant Chief, Todd Stange to advise him of the Radio System User Committee’s vote to allow Silver Creek Fire Department on to the Ozaukee County 800 Radio System. Assistant Chief, Todd Stange will be advised to direct any of his questions to Duane Willborn. 

There was discussion on several reprogramming issues. “OZS DISP” talk group to be removed from all non-law enforcement radios, and replaced with “OZS COM” talk group for communications with the Ozaukee County Sheriff’s dispatch center, and the Mutual Aid channel reprogramming. 

Duane Willborn asked if there were any further reprogramming issues pending, which needed attention/action. The committee did not present him with any additional reprogramming assignments. 

Bill Tackes questioned if the Ozaukee County highway department trucks would be allowed monitoring capability of the “OZS DISP” talk group, not transmitting capability. This request had previously been discussed and approved to allow Ozaukee County highway department trucks the capability of monitoring only, the “OZS DISP” talk group. 

Other business brought before the committee: 

James Albrinck brought up the problem of radio system coverage in Washington County. Duane Willborn discussed the possibility of penetrator antennas.

James Albrinck questioned if the county plans to migrate to a 700 MHz radio system. Per Duane Willborn, the current 800 MHz radio system, will be utilized for approximately the next 10 years, and there is no current plan to migrate to the 700 MHz radio system. There was discussion on the difference between the two systems. 

Gus Wirth Jr. brought up discussion on Wireless 9-1-1 technology, specifically Phase 3 – GPS, and its impact. 

William Stolte and Jack Morrison presented the committee with a copy of the results of a survey conducted in reference to an Interoperability Communications System Plan for Homeland Security. The results were summarized and explained by Jack Morrison, who encouraged committee input and feedback. 

There being no further business, Bill Tackes motioned and seconded by William Rausch to adjourn at 12:41 PM.

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June 17, 2002

The meeting of the Radio System User Committee was called to order by Chairman Paul D. Neumyer at 9:03 AM in Room 45 of the Justice Center of Ozaukee County Port Washington. Roll Call was taken and present were Paul Neumyer (Chairman) Dennis Kasprzak, James Albrinck, William Rausch and Gus Wirth Jr. Excused absent were Wendy Maechtle and William J. Tackes. Also present were Duane Willborn and Mark Van Natta Assistant Chief of Fillmore Fire Department, and Mark Eernisse, Chief of the Port Washington Fire Department.

Motion by James Albrinck seconded by Dennis Kasprzak to approve the minutes as submitted. Motion carried.

Mark VanNatta made a request to have Fillmore Fire Department be able to get on the Ozaukee County System. It was pointed out that Fillmore and Waubeka Fire Department use each other for mutual aid. Discussion on the type of service that Fillmore Fire should receive.

Motion by Dennis Kasprzak seconded by William Rausch to permit Fillmore Fire Department to use the Ozaukee County System with full privileges and their own talk groups. Motion Passed It was agreed that one of the Ozaukee County technicians would go to Fillmore Fire Department after the radios are installed to instruct on their use.

Discussion on four digit numbers for radio ID since we now have 1200 radios on the system, we would automatically have 200 duplicates. Wirth stated that it would be nice to have a designator for the governmental unit first, followed by the type of service (fire, police, DPW, etc) second and the unit number using the last two digits. Chief Eernisse, Chief Raush, and Member Albrinck voiced opposition to any changes to the current numbering system. The Fire Chiefs of Ozaukee County believe that the current system is adequate and need not be changed. Discussion followed.

Motion made by Jim Albrinck seconded by Paul Neumyer to have Duane Willborn research other radio systems and users of trunking systems to find out what other users are doing for numbering units. This information is to be used for contingency planning. A report of this study should be available for the next meeting. Motion Carried.

Discussion on the radio ducting and the result of down tilting the antennas at the Mequon Site. It was agreed that everyone should update their respective agencies on how to report any system problems. Duane or General Communications should be called immediately when a malfunction or problem is detected.

Chairman Neumyer will schedule another meeting in late September or October. Agenda for that meeting is as follows:

  • Minutes of previous meeting.

  • Review County Wide Pursuit Policy Regarding Usage of Radio System

  • Report from Duane on Numbering schemes for unit numbers in other counties.

  • Update on Fillmore Fire Dept. coming onto system.

  • Report on a Radio Users training Course.

  • Any other issues which committee members or Public wishes to address.

    •

    There being no further business the meeting was adjourned at 11:03 AM.

    Respectfully submitted

    Gus Wirth Jr. Member

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    March 7, 2002

    The meeting of the Radio System User Committee was called to order by Chairman Paul D. Neumyer at 1:30 PM in Room 45 of the Justice Center of Ozaukee County. Roll call was taken and present were Paul Neumyer (Chairman), members Wendy Maechtle, Dennis Kasprzak, James Albrinck, William Rausch, William J. Tackes and Gus Wirth Jr. Also present, Duane Willborn and Shawn Anderson of Radio System Service, Judy Guse and Bill Dudash of City of Cedarburg along with Sheriff Straub.

    Motion by Kasprzak second by Maechtle to approve the minutes of August 15th 2001 as submitted, vote taken, motion carried.

    Introduction and welcome of Shawn Andersen to the Radio System Service team. It was stated that Mr. Andersen will be taking over the system calibration along with other service functions needed throughout the County and therefore save the taxpayers over $17,000.00 per year.

    Discussion, of radio use during pursuit and establishing a policy thereof. It was agreed that the pursuit policy should come from the law enforcement units of the agencies involved and not from Radio System User Committee. Members of the law enforcement group stated that they would take the information back to their respective agencies for recommendations or education of the present policy.

    Motion, by Kasprzak, seconded by Maechtle to have Lt. Galbraith or his assigns take the issue up with the law enforcement agencies or Chiefs meeting, vote taken, motion carried.

    Consensus, to have every agency contacted through there respected members on this committee to recommend a numbering system for the users. It was noted that we are now using 3 numbers and we have over 1300 radios on the system. This means that some are duplicated or have to use alpha designators along with the numerical designators. There was a strong feeling that the numerical assigns to a radio should be meaningful and carry the governmental unit along with the agency and use type in the numerical designator. Member Maechtle presented a suggested numbering system. A copy of which was given to all members present. It was agreed that the recommendation should be accomplished on or before May 17th 2002.

    Motion, by James Albrinck, Seconded by Wendy Maechtle, to have the Technology Resource Committee review and revise if necessary the "System User Agreement" with the County to reflect current use and pay particular attention to the disposal of equipment and the resale thereof. Since the agreement is over 10 years old, and is now coming up for renewal, it is necessary for more current revision. Vote taken, motion carried.

    Discussion, regarding the fact that all radios in the system are able to monitor and transmit on Ozaukee Dispatch talk group. The thought of having an additional talk group or using and renaming a talk group was discussed. It was agreed that this should be looked at in the future and that some policy to make Ozaukee Dispatch facilities available to all without disrupting the pertinent traffic on Ozaukee Dispatch talk group should be adopted to prevent non-intentional or disruption to the communications of the Ozaukee Sheriff’s department operations or other law enforcement agencies.

    It was the opinion of the committee that any action should be withheld pending a thought process by users to accomplish the communications to the Ozaukee Dispatch without impairing the critical communications of the Sheriff’s department. All members agreed that they will talk to their respective agencies and refresh the operations of calling the Ozaukee Dispatch in the meantime.

    There being no further business, a motion was made by Wirth and seconded by Tackes to adjourn, the motion carried and the meeting was adjourned at 4:37 PM.

    Respectfully submitted, Gus Wirth Jr., Member.

    Table of Contents

    August 15, 2001

    Chairman Paul D. Neumyer called the meeting of the Ozaukee County Radio System User Committee to order at 10:06 AM in Room 45 of the Justice Center of Ozaukee County. Present at the meeting were Paul Neumyer (Chairman), members Wendy Maechtle, Dennis Kasprzak, James Albrinck, William Rausch and Gus Wirth, Jr. Also present, Duane Willborn, of Technology Resources, responsible for the operation of the radio system.

    Motion made by Maechtle and seconded by Kasprzak that the minutes of the last meeting be approved as submitted. Motion carried.

    Discussion on radio procedures took place, it was decided that although there is ample available resources on the system, it was the opinion of the committee that there needs to be better use of the radio talk groups and that some effort should be made to educate the users on communication protocol, etiquette, and simply better communications through the use of some standardization. Chief Rausch reported that the Fire Departments are moving away from using 10 codes and are going to simple language that will avoid any misunderstandings. Although no action was taken, it was felt that this was a priority and should be brought up to the respective users/agencies so as to finalize some suggestions at the next meeting.

    Motion made by Chief Rausch seconded by James Albrinck to have Chairman Neumyer contact the City of Cedarburg to refrain from using the unit number 270, which is also used by the Chief of the Waubeka Fire Department. Waubeka uses the 200 series of numbers and this would avoid confusion. Motion carried with no descents.

    Discussion regarding the adding of the three additional mutual aid channels that some other counties are using and the unit numbering system used throughout the County. Options of going to four numbers instead of three or adding a suffix letter behind some of the numbers was discussed. Since there are 1200 radios on the system and the maximum number of units using the three number nomenclature would be 999, it was felt that a new numbering system be integrated. Keeping in mind that one should maintain the governmental number integrated into the unit number, there is only a choice of going to four numbers or adding the trailing letter. Members are to take this to the groups that they represent and make recommendations at the next meeting. The Chairman will put this on the next agenda. All agreed this would be a big project.

    Motion made by Wirth seconded by Maechtle to allow the Ozaukee Aging Department to use the system for the County owned mass transit vehicles. The motion carried with Albrinck, Maechtle, Wirth and Neumyer voting on the prevailing side and Rausch and Kasprzak voting on the non-prevailing side.

    Discussion regarding lack of education regarding certain operational standards, such as going to TAC 1 when leaving ones jurisdiction and the agreed upon procedure to advise Ozaukee Sheriff Dispatch when a call for Flight for Life is summoned so that a patch can be set up for the responding agencies EMS frequency. It was the opinion of the committee that some of these incidents were caused by lack of education and/or situation stress. The procedures will be addressed and hopefully put in printed form along with operational efficiency and etiquette to be distributed to all users on a systematic basis.

    The meeting was adjourned at 12:08 PM. Respectfully submitted. Gus Wirth Jr. Member

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    August 23, 2000

    The meeting of the Ozaukee County Radio System User Committee was called to order by temporary chairman Gus Wirth Jr. at 10:00 AM in room 43 of the Justice Center, Port Washington WI. Present were Chief William Rausch, Wendy Maechtle, Dennis Kasprzak, Gus Wirth Jr., Paul Neumyer, Duane Willborn and guest Evan Bozarth of H.T.E. Absent were Jim Albrinck, Bill Tackes.

    Motion: by William Rausch seconded by Wendy Maechtle, to approve the minutes as submitted. Motion carried unanimous.

    Chairman Wirth ask for nominations for the election of a chairman on the committee since the prior chairman retired. Wendy Maechtle nominated Paul Neumyer, the nomination was seconded by Dennis Kasprzak. Chairman Wirth called for additional nominations three times, giving ample time for response between calls. There being no more nominations, the nominations were closed. The chairman called for a vote and it was unanimous to elect Paul Neumyer chairman. Mr. Wirth relinquished the chair and passed the presiding of the meeting to Paul Neumyer.

    Update: Duane Willborn gave a presentation on the new logging recorder and the versatility of this new piece of equipment. He informed all that the new logging recorder will be able to play the audio of any transmission by, Time, Unit Identification (LID) talk group or any combination. Mr. Willborn advised that he would like some input as to how the reports should be presented and what type of information an agency would be looking for.

    Update: The new Control System Device will be able to present reports for transmissions and system information. This information will be available on the WEB. It would be nice to have some meaningful reports generated. Mr Willborn ask for help in this matter and have the committee go to their respective users to see what type of reports they would like.

    Talk Group Definitions: It was the consensus of the committee that each member will interrogate the users of the system to see if some policies and consistent operations can be achieved. Discussion on the use by the Police Departments was of particular concern as the radio personalities are somewhat different from one department to another.

    System Usage: After a long discussion it was agreed that we need a policy on the universal talk groups and procedures for contacting outside services (such as flight for life) and other governmental units. This policy and at many times procedures should be adhered to in order to avoid duplication and /or the absents of the implementation of request by various agencies.

    After brief discussion on the upgrade of microwave and other new equipment, the meeting was adjourned at 11:42 AM

    Respectfully submitted

    Gus Wirth Jr.

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    June 30, 1999 

    The meeting of the Ozaukee County Radio System User Committee was called to order by Temporary Chairman, Gus Wirth Jr., at the Justice Center, at 9:00 a.m., in the public break room, on the lower level. Present were: Gus Wirth Jr., Lyle Falk, Dennis Kasperzak, Bill Rausch, Mike Meyer, Duane Wilborn, Wendy Maechtle, and Paul Neumeyer. This being 100% of the committee, a quorum was declared and the meeting proceeded. Also present were Fritz Koehler, T. Mike Caldwell, Paul Jacobs, Richard Haczywski, Dick Preston, Murat Ikizek, Bob Van Dinter, Bill Stolte, Bob Cluka and Chairman of Ozaukee County Board, Leroy Bley.

    Since the resignation of Jeff Schmidt, it was necessary to elect a new chairperson. Mike Meyer nominated Duane Willborn, Lyle Falk seconded the nomination. There being no other nominations after due notice, the nominations were closed. A vote was taken and Duane Willborn was unanimously elected as Chairman and proceeded to chair the meeting.

    Discussion on the Y2K issues found that the mobiles and portables should operate without severe problems after the backbone update; however, it was decided that all of the portables and mobiles in the system should be updated to the latest software revision. Since some of these radios have not been in operation since 1991, the committee felt that it would be in the best interest of the system to have the latest revisions. The Chairman stated that Ericsson would pay for all of the software; however, there would be a charge of $25.00 per portable and $50.00 per Ranger Mobile for the installation of the software.

    A discussion took place that since all of the radios in the system were to be upgraded and software changed, it would be a good time to make any global changes to the system and/or the talk groups. All members were asked to contact their respective agencies and convey any changes that may be desired to the next meeting.

    The Chairperson proceeded to explain the advantages of the new upgrade to the backbone, in addition to the Y2K compliance. The backup power was discussed and confirmed that there is a minimum of 8 to 14 days of fuel at all sites. These sites will be filled on December 1, 1999. to assure ample fuel.

    A discussion was held regarding the Ozaukee County Sheriff’s Office as backup to all agencies, including paging. It was confirmed that the Ozaukee County Sheriff’s Office will be able to page out all emergency agencies from their office, if necessary.

    The Chairperson proceeded to ask that since all of the radios will be looked at, it would be a advantageous to take an actual inventory of all of the radios in the system and get the latest ID numbers. After receipt of the entire radio inventory, it was agreed that a "lockdown" would be favorable. This means that any radios that are not on the inventory would be taken off the system and rendered useless. Reasonable effort will be made to track any radio before taking it off of the system; however, this will assure the integrity of the system and that all radios are accounted for.

    The Chairperson explained the new digital IMBE in lieu of the AEGIS, and stated that there will be some samples that can be demonstrated for future use. The Chairperson asked for some direction as to the priority for future system improvements.

    Again, a discussion took place as to the fact that this would be the best time to make any changes in programming to the radios, talk groups or system to make it better for all concern. Some use of talk groups should possibly be renamed and the sequence in the radios could be changed to give easier or simpler operation. Since the system has been in operation for almost 8 years, some efficiencies may have evolved that could be implemented on a global system basis.

    Under old business, a discussion for more mutual aid channels when backup is used to enhance the number of channels and better coverage in western Washington County would be worthwhile. The Chairperson stated that if Washington County or Waukesha County would go with an Ericsson system, he would look into a joint coverage arrangement.

    There being no other business, a motion was made by Wirth, seconded by Meyer to adjourn, the motion carried and the meeting was adjourned at 10:22 a.m.

    Respectfully submitted,

     

    Gus Wirth Jr.

    Ozaukee County Board

    Supervisor District 21

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