HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC AG PKT 2004-03-08 #J AGENDA REPORT
DATE: March 8, 2004
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
THROUGH: John Bahorski, City Manager
FROM: Michael F. Sellers, Chief of Police
SUBJECT: Cellular Service for Police Department
SUMMARY OF REQUEST:
It is requested that the City Council authorize the City Manager to sign a one -year contract with
Nextel Wireless to provide cellular service for the Police Department.
BACKGROUND:
The City has utilized Verizon Wireless cellular service within the police department for the past
decade. The cellular phones currently in use do not meet the new 2004 federal requirement of
enhanced 911 features. Thus the older phones now in use cannot be re- activated should they need
repair. The City's contract with Verizon Wireless recently expired and created an opportunity to
explore other venders, which might provide better service at less cost. Staff has completed a service
and cost analysis comparison between the major cellular service providers. It was determined that
Nextel offered superior local cellular coverage as well as savings compared to Verizon and other
cellular service providers. Additionally, other City departments already utilize Nextel service. This
proposed change not only will enhance and provide free communications between Police and City
personnel, it will also include the feature of direct connect radio which police personnel did not have
available to them in the past.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Cellular service funds for the Police Department have been budgeted for FY03 /04. It is estimated that
the City will realize a savings of $1000 -$2000 annually in cellular expenses by switching service
providers from Verizon to Nextel.
RECOMMENDATION:
Authorize the City Manager to sign a one -year service cellular service agreement with Nextel
Wireless.
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Michael F. Sellers, Chief of Po ice
NOT 1 A► a APPROV D:
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John Bah: rski, ity Manager Agenda Number ‘7-'