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Department Approval �-. Item Description BACKGROUND: l�'�, Jy REQUEST FOR COUNCIL ACTION Date: 3/9/09 Item No.: 7.e City Manager Approval Authorize Acceptance of Metropolitan Emergency Services Soard Grant for 800 Megahertz Radios for Public Works Supervisors The City has implemented the 800 megahertz radio system for public safety purposes. The Emergency Management team has requested that Public Works purchase 800 megahertz radios for the supervisors and managers for communication during emergencies where our response is required. Currently communication is via cell phone between public safety and public works staff during critical events. Cell phone service can be unreliable in major emergencies due to overloading of the system. Public Works applied for a grant from the Metropolitan Emergency Services Soard for purchase of up to (5) 800 megahertz radios for supervisory communications with public safety and other jurisdictions. We were recently notified of award of this grant in the amount of $5,859.91. This grant requires a minimum 20 percent local matching funds. Staff would like to purchase these radios before we are well into the tornado season this spring. FINANCIAL IMPACTS This grant requires a 20 percent match with local funds. Staff is recommending that the local match be funded from utility funds in the 2009 budget. The amount would not exceed $1,464.98. STAFF RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends the Council authorize acceptance of the grant for the purchase of 800 megahertz radios for Public Works. Public Works plays a key role in emergency response and it is critical that they have the necessary tools to communicate effectively during emergency operations. Requested Council Action: Motion accepting a grant from the Metropolitan Emergency Services Soard in the amount of $5,859.91 for the purchase of radios for Emergency Management. Prepared by: Duane Schwartz, Public Works Director Page 1 of 1