06-23-2004 Council Agenda - Laserfiche WebLink

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44, G(14 6eanada 515 Little Canada Road, Little Canada, MN 55117-1600 (651) 766 -4029 / FAX: (651) 766 -4048 www.ci.lithe-canada.mn.us MEMORANDUM TO: Mayor Fahey & Members of the City Council FROM: Joel Hanson, City Administrator DATE: June 18,2004 RE: 800 MHz MAYOR Michael I. Fahey COUNCIL Jim LaVatle Matt Anderson Rick Montour 13i11 Blesener ADMINISTRATOR Joel R. Hanson As you know, Ramsey County is pursuing the creation of an 800 MHz communication system. This technology will greatly enhance interagency communications thereby improving public safety. In addition to cost, a primary obstacle in development this system is determining the best configuration of dispatch functions. Currently, there are four distinct dispatching agencies. They are St. Paul, Ramsey County, White Bear Lake, and Maplewood. Options range from merging them into one dispatching entity to maintaining the four separate centers. To that end, we have been asked to provide feedback on the possible options. (See materials attached.) The City Managers have been meeting to discuss this matter. The consensus of that group is as follows: 800 MHz should be pursued at this time to enhance communications in the public safety arena and to take advantage of the availability of significant outside funding. There is serious concern about merging the four dispatch centers into one due to the following reasons: 1. Significant differences in staffing between St. Paul and the suburban centers that could negatively impact service levels. 2. Potential cost shifting whereby the suburban communities would be spending an additional 5500,000 per year for the same or lower service levels. 3. Wage differences between St. Paul and the suburban centers that could impact costs even greater. 4. Estimates that St. Paul is short 20 dispatchers to match our service level. 5. Differences in the types of calls handled in St. Paul versus suburbs. There are too many options and variables that have not yet received sufficient study to ensure a good decision is reached. Governance of whatever model is chosen needs to be addressed, as significant differences of opinion exist as to the best option. Based on the attached agenda from the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners, it appears they are moving ahead with this matter on the June 22 ". It also appears a consolidated operation is the preferred choice. (Please note that I did communicate our "unofficial" position to the County by the required deadline.) We should discuss this matter and communicate our position to the County. 1