FINANCIAL BUSINESS REQUEST (FBR)
Motion/Request:
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MOTION to transfer funding to Account 21020103-57300 (Dispatch - New Equipment) for the purchase of communications equipment to accommodate emergency radio communications for Ledyard Police Department, Ledyard Fire Company, and Gales Ferry Fire Company on the Connecticut Land Mobile Radio Network (CLMRN) as follows:
• Up to $14,513.00 from Account 21020103-57300 G0014 (Dispatch - New Equipment - AARPA Funds); and
• Up to $30,000.00 from Account 21020401-57300 (AES - New Equipment).
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Background:
Ledyard Police Department, Ledyard Fire Company, and Gales Ferry Fire Company are collectively engaged in a project to migrate all primary emergency radio communications to the Connecticut Land Mobile Radio Network. Through a combination of grant funding, ARPA funding and annual budgeting, the departments have obtained or will obtain the necessary mobile and portable radios for all town first responders to communicate on the state radio system.
This project has several benefits to the town, including the use of a robust and reliable state radio network which will enhance the safety of responders, interoperability with surrounding communities for mutual aid, and “over the air” updating of radios and software.
The attached quote from Communications Plus represents equipment upgrades in the Ledyard Emergency Communications Center to support communications for all three departments on the CLMRN.
Department Comment/Recommendation:
The department strongly recommends this transfer of funds to continue the implementation of this project for the safety of our community and all first responders who serve in Ledyard.
Finance Director Comment/Recommendation:
Account 21020103-57300 G0014 “Dispatch - New Equipment - AARPA Funds” has an unencumbered balance of $14,513.02 as of January 8th, 2024. This account was originally funded with $75,000 of ARPA funding in order to replace two dispatch stations at the EOC. The project came in under budget by the remaining amount noted.
Account 21020401-57300 “AES - New Equipment” has an unencumbered balance of $48,592.89 as of January 8th, 2024.
It should be noted that all town ARPA funding needs to be obligated by December 31, 2024 and fully expended by December 31, 2026.
Mayor Comment/Recommendation:
The ARPA Project approved list was completed by Council action. I believe underspent funds should also be viewed accordingly as there will be multiple projects seeking funding.