Ashley Barnes

This document presents an evaluation of system planning recommendations for the Vermont Public Safety Communications Task Force, specifically addressing policy and operations-based regionalization (Tier 3). It aims to identify priorities and potential recommendations across key areas including support functions like Quality Assurance and administrative roles, operational aspects such as policies, protocols, and planning, and workforce considerations including recruiting, training, and staffing. The evaluation highlights challenges such as inconsistent QA programs, significant staffing deficiencies, and the absence of standardized statewide training in communications centers.

The meeting commenced with a roll call and recording acknowledgment. Project updates included a discussion on the regional and statewide VHF LMR radio network concept, following a presentation to Addison County Fire Chiefs, with a subsequent request for a similar event for the Vermont Ambulance Association. A preliminary project plan for the CAD project was delivered to the Task Force Chairs. The Task Force also discussed legislative updates after testifying to the House Government Operations Committee. During public comment, support for the Task Force's work from Addison County was voiced. The meeting concluded with the confirmation of the next meeting date.

The meeting commenced with roll call and confirmation that the session was being recorded. Key discussion points centered on project updates, including Televate's support in reviewing draft legislation and the development of draft criteria for identifying potential pilot simulcast cells. Further discussion addressed Commissioner Morrison's opinion regarding the Task Force's governance recommendation, specifically focusing on the potential loss of stakeholder buy-in, concerns about expanding government bureaucracy, and the inclusion of a sunset date in the legislation. The Task Force finalized consensus on suggested edits to the draft legislation. During public comment, inquiries were made about the remaining funding from the $9 million allocation and the composition of the board as per the Commissioner's opinion.

The meeting commenced with roll call and introductions of administrative support and project management teams, as well as public attendees representing the Vermont State Firefighters Association and LMR vendors. The primary focus was project updates, specifically regarding a presentation and discussion held with the Addison County Fire Chiefs concerning the regional and statewide VHF LMR radio network concept. The fire chiefs expressed near-unanimous support for the regional concept but raised significant concerns regarding the continuing cost of ownership associated with potential P25 systems and the desire for clarity on implementation costs. Further discussion involved requests for similar outreach to the Vermont Ambulance Association (EMS side) and the need for mapping existing coverage versus proposed system coverage to visually demonstrate benefits and site reduction possibilities. Task force members also expressed concern regarding governance over the system's implementation.

The meeting included the approval of the minutes from Special Meeting No. 19 held on January 27, 2026. Project updates included the delivery of a detailed report to the legislature on February 2nd. The Task Force reviewed an investigation example from Televate detailing how a proposed collection of simulcast cells for two-way radio infrastructure enhancement would appear in Addison County, including coverage maps. Televate agreed to develop further options based on Task Force considerations for piloting the project. Public comment focused on low stakeholder participation and concerns regarding potential funding availability for projects. A question was raised regarding interoperability between areas if a simulcast cell goes offline, which was confirmed by Televate. New business included a confirmation that the Co-Chair would follow up regarding a recent resignation and the Task Force transition.