Date: 09/04/2015
Final
Radio Technology and Operation Plans
WILDFIRE MATTERS REVIEW COMMITTEE
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09:02 AM -- Radio Technology and Operation Plans
Kevin Klein, Director of the Colorado Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM), introduced Russell Gibson, Public Safety Communications Analyst at DHSEM, and Jack Cobb, Statewide Interoperability Coordinator at DHSEM.
Director Klein spoke briefly about the history of the Statewide Needs Assessment and Business Plan report analyzing the public safety communication needs in Colorado. Mr. Gibson continued with a presentation of a summary of findings from the report. The findings from the report fell into four main areas: coverage, sustainable funding, consolidated governance, and interoperability concerns. A copy of DHSEM's presentation is provided in Attachment A. Committee members were also provided with a copy of the executive summary of the Digital Trunked Radio System (DTRS) Statewide Needs Assessment and Business Plan (Attachment B).
150904 AttachA.pdf
150904 AttachB.pdf
Throughout and following the presentation, Mr. Gibson responded to questions from the committee regarding how many towers the state currently has and how many more are needed to reach the recommended 90 percent coverage level. The committee also requested that Director Klein highlight the importance of radio communication systems for the committee, especially during wildfires. Director Klein responded to committee questions related to problems that have arisen in past wildfires due to inadequate communication systems or inadequate training. Director Klein also responded to questions regarding the prioritization of project funding, including how DHSEM collaborates with the Office of Information Technology (OIT). Director Klein also responded to committee questions regarding the use of satellite phone technology, how local jurisdictions have reacted to the recommendations from the report, the report's recommendation for consolidated governance, funding issues, and the use of VHF radio systems in the state.
09:40 AM
Ken Watkins, President of the Colorado State Fire Chiefs (CSFC) and Fire Chief for the city of Grand Junction, showed the committee an example of a speaking trumpet, which were used for public safety communications in colonial times, and a DTRS radio, which are used today. Chief Watkins spoke about the role of CSFC and the importance of ensuring the stability and reliability of the current statewide emergency radio system, especially during emergency situations. Chief Watkins also spoke about the DTRS Statewide Needs Assessment and Business Plan report, funding issues, and the work done to address past issues. Chief Watkins spoke specifically about the Grand Junction Regional Communications System and the challenges of coordinating between the various radio systems.
Chief Watkins and Director Klein responded to questions from the committee regarding the amateur radio efforts discussed during the committee's previous meeting.