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b. Results of Phase 1 Emeraency Communications Study The Board received a report on the Countywide Emergency Communications needs assessment performed by CTA Communications, Inc. Emergency Management Specialist Eric Griffin gave a PowerPoint presentation, which is incorporated by reference. In summary, the County Commissioners approved the study in June 2001. The public safety users were interviewed and the communications equipment was examined. The conclusions were that the existing equipment was not sufficient. For example, there is limited redundant communications, very limited local interoperability, no regional interoperability, and very little compatibility with new technology. The recommendations are to make some short and long-term fixes for the existing system, make physical improvements at the communications center, conduct a tower location study, and implement a new system design. EMS Director Nick Waters said that these concerns have been heard before and the report has confirmed what they have found in the local and regional disaster exercises. He said that it is time to bring the public safety arena up to speed. He said that the report would be up an the website tomorrow. Commissioner Gordon made reference to page 27 and the certified radio users. She asked if this was referring to the towns and Nick Waters said yes. He said that CHCCS were missing because they were invited to participate, but did not come to the interview. Commissioner Halkiotis said that everyone needs to understand the significance of this and any other group that is of any significance should be involved. Nick Waters answered some technical questions for Commissioner Gordon. Commissioner Gordon encouraged Nick Waters to think about when the electricity goes out or cell towers go out and if you go high technology then you are more dependent an technology. Nick Waters said that they are ordering UPS's with an hour and a half use time Commissioner Barry Jacobs noted that one of the NCACC's legislative goals is to use the 911 fees to make improvements. Nick Waters said that some of these expenditures are outside the usage of 911 fees. Commissioner Jacobs asked Nick Waters to explain to the legislators about the antiquated system that we have now. Commissioner Jacobs asked about the telecommunications tower study. Craig Benedict said that the staff could be bringing a proposal for the Master Telecommunications Plan in about three to four weeks. Commissioner Jacobs asked if this was coordinated with the consultant's study. Nick Waters said that they will need more tower sites if they implement these recommendations and the Master Telecommunications Plan will be a head start.