Title
Resolution Authorizing Regional Wireless Cooperative Board of Directors to Manage Phoenix Regional Conventional Radio Network (Resolution 21707)
Description
Request to authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to approve a Resolution on behalf of the Regional Wireless Cooperative (RWC) to formally establish the Phoenix Regional Conventional (VHF) radio network under RWC Board management. If approved, the Resolution will provide management oversight, expansion planning, and budgeting to the VHF radio network in the same way the RWC Board currently manages the RWC 700 trunked network. Authorization is also requested for the City Controller to disburse all funds related to this item.
Report
Summary
The VHF radio network is a shared resource used by all Valley fire partners. It is a vital and life safety service used for hazard zone communications. The VHF radio network is completely independent from the existing RWC 700 MHz trunked network.
The Phoenix Fire Department (PFD) has considered merging the VHF radio network under RWC management for years. Currently, there is no governance or long-term planning for the VHF radio network, and current practices of the network are not sustainable. Although all Valley fire departments use the VHF radio network, it has been almost solely funded by the PFD.
The RWC Board of Directors approved formation of a VHF Working Group at the February 2018 Board meeting. The group conducted a full review of several key areas, including the current state of the VHF system and the technical requirements for the transition. The group also developed a five-year budgetary plan.
Financial Impact
Transition of the VHF radio network to RWC management and cost sharing with other Valley fire partners will result in a reduction in costs to the PFD. Estimated overall VHF five-year operations and maintenance costs is $4,000,032. Of this amount, the City of Phoenix's cost is approximately $2,000,040. PFD and RWC staff have consulted and developed the VHF FY 2019/2020 budget plan with the City of Phoenix Finance and Budget and Research departments.
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Deputy City Manager Karen Peters and the Office of Government Relations.