TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager to execute a Joint Powers Agreement to allow the City of Long Beach to join the Los Angeles Regional Interoperable Communications System (LA-RICS) Joint Powers Authority for the development of a regional, shared communications system for public safety first responders. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
The events of September 11, 2001 and aftermath of Hurricane Katrina have focused public awareness on the need for improved interagency coordination and enhanced response to day-to-day and large-scale events. Historically, public safety agencies have developed emergency communications systems that meet local needs, while failing to provide seamless interoperability with all jurisdictions and agencies that may respond to emergencies. Currently, departments must patch their systems together to achieve communication interoperability. In addition, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is requiring that the City upgrade its radio systems by January 1, 2013, an unfunded mandate, which is further incentive for the City to participate in the LA-RICS Joint Powers Authority to find regional solutions.
LA-RICS is a modern, integrated, and wireless voice and data communications system that will support more than 34,000 public safety first responders and local mission-critical personnel within the Los Angeles County region. The system will improve communications for both day-to-day incidents and during large-scale disasters. For the past two and one-half years, LA-RICS committees, which include representatives from the Fire Department, Police Department, and Technology Services Department, have been meeting to review the technical and governance issues associated with maintaining and operating such a system for the benefit of all communities in Los Angeles County.
Authorization to execute a joint powers agreement to join the LA-RICS Joint Powers Authority is requested to allow the City of Long Beach to participate and guide the dev...
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