Emergency Communications

BOONE, Iowa---Most of the public is not aware that a change has been mandated that will affect emergency radio communications. The change is called Narrow Banding Radio and a group of Boone County's Emergency Responders have been meeting and planning for the change for several months. The mandated change will be January 2013. The cost of the radios and the necessary infrastructure to cover the county is expected to be covered, at least in part, by the 911 Surcharge. Rick Lampe, who now coordinates the 911 activity, told the Boone County Supervisors that grants will be sought, but will not cover the cost of what needs to be done. Infrastructure improvements could more than a $1 million.