Radio Services:
In December 2004, after the bid process, York County entered a contract with Motorola, Inc to build and maintain a state-of-the-art 800 MHz digital two-way radio, mobile data, and alpha-numeric paging wireless radio network for emergency responders, general government, and the municipalities in York County. The system was constructed and went “on the air” in February 2007. The new interoperable system replaced numerous “independent” radio systems in York County that were antiquated, unreliable and would not allow different agencies to communicate with each other. For example, prior to the new 800 MHz radio system a sheriff’s deputy could not talk with a firefighter using his radio. The 800 MHz digital radio system allows for all emergency services in York County to operate on a single radio system that provides superior coverage countywide. York County maintains a contract with Motorola, Inc for the management and maintenance of the system.
When the Department of Public Safety Communications was created all of the responsibilities for the radio systems were consolidated. These responsibilities include:
· Manage the day-to-day operations of the radio system.
· Administer the contract between York County and Motorola for system management and maintenance.
· Ensure access and operation of the radio systems to 48 paid and volunteer fire, EMS and law enforcement agencies, county government, municipalities, state and federal agencies with over 2,500 in-car and portable radios.
· Ensure access and operation of the mobile data systems for the Sheriff’s Office and Public Works with over 200 mobile data devices.
· Ensure proper operations of the 900 MHz alpha-numeric paging system with over 900 pagers assigned to EMS/Rescue, fire and other county personnel for 24 hour notifications.
· Coordinate with the 800 MHz radio system user’s group to develop operational policies and procedures.
· Provide annual training to all emergency responders on the systems uses and best practices.
· Maintain an emergency cache of radio for deployment during large scale emergencies in York County.
· Manage all FCC Licensing for York County Government.