Minutes 10-03-2013 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Jim Groves said the new radios now can include GPS and Bluetooth. He said this is a great asset, and this capability is not available with the VIPER system. Commissioner Price asked where this system has been successfully used already. Chief Jones said it is being used around the country, and that information could be found He said Durham County and Cary have their own system. Commissioner Price asked if Orange County would be able to contact Durham and Cary on this system. Chief Jones said there would be access to the VIPER system, so in theory there would be communication with anyone in the state. Commissioner Price asked if work would also have to be done with Alamance County since Mebane extends into Orange County. Jim Groves said that Alamance County would not have to be on board. He said that when Mebane Fire Department comes to Orange County there is communication through VIPER, so it would be simple radio programming issue. Commissioner Gordon said this sounds like a promising option. She suggested a systematic look at the pros and cons to present at the AOG meeting. She noted the increased coverage potential. She would like to see if their consultant could look at this, and she feels it is fantastic to have this kind of opportunity. Commissioner McKee said he is glad to see the discussion. He said the 700 MHz would not be a cure all, but it would cure the lack of control. Commissioner Pelissier said she heard about some new updates to VIPER, and she would like to make sure that a stand-alone system would not cost additional money if it has to be compatible with VIPER as it changes. Jim Groves said the P-25 system is the newest VIPER system and this would be compatible with the stand alone system. Commissioner Rich said she is encouraged with this proactive approach to make this a better system for the County. Chair Jacobs said the County is ready to work with other governmental entities for the betterment of the County. He said he hears everyone going toward a collaborative, cost effective, pro-safety direction, and he looks forward to hearing more about this. Jeff Cabe said if this system will cover the county, he would like to know if data can also be added. Michael Talbert said the County is currently looking at tower sites and encouraging private developers to install towers. He said that if towers are installed, these private developers may want to pay them to be on the towers. Commissioner Gordon asked how North Chatham and Mebane fit into this stand alone system. Chief Stroud said Chatham uses the VIPER system, and they are also looking at the 700 system. Jim Groves said Mebane has a dual system like Chatham. Chief Jones said if Chatham is thinking about moving to 700 MHz, perhaps a partnership could be established with them as well. He said these types of partnerships create lower costs for everyone. Michael Talbert expressed thanks to all of the partners who have assisted with the OSI system. 3. Open Discussion A. Field Relationships