Mobile and portable radios, dispatch consoles and transmitter and receiver equipment used by Sarnia police are quickly reaching end-of-life, and while a plan is in place to replace them, it's pricey.
The Sarnia Police Service says it will fully explain its radio communications upgrade project to city council before a decision is made on funding a budget shortfall for the multi-million dollar project.
The police services board approved funding, design and installation recommendations in principle Thursday, deciding ultimately the project banks on council approval.
"The police services board just wanted us to have a special meeting ahead of council so we can explain the technical aspect of the project," said Chief Norm Hansen. "It's a huge project replacing the whole radio communication system in Sarnia and its been a project we've been working on for years. So, I think it was a smart request."
He said four completely new towers are needed, and significant repairs would be made to one old tower to be able to hold the weight of the modern equipment.
A budget shortfall of up to $822,000 requires funding from the 2018 police operating budget surplus, the police contingency reserve and borrowing funds from city reserves.
In a report to the police board, Finance Director Cathy Dam said manufacturer support on the equipment could cease by the end of this year or next.
Spectrum Communications has submitted a proposal to supply and install a whole new system by the end of next year for $3.8 million.