Macon County Commissioners 10-08-2013 Press Kit

7/27/2019 Macon County Commissioners 10-08-2013 Press Kit

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MACON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

OCTOBER 8, 2013

AGENDA

1. Call to order and welcome by Chairman Corbin2. Announcements

A. NCACC Video3. Moment of Silence4. Pledge of Allegiance5. Public Hearing(s) None6. Public Comment Period7. Adjustments to and approval of the agenda8. Reports/Presentations

A. Proclamation regarding Mental Illness Awareness Week AnnNandrea

B. Proclamation regarding November as Pancreatic CancerAwareness Month Margaret Ramsey

C. Community Funding Pool recommendations Karen WallaceD.Memorial garden at Macon County Public Library Karen

Wallace

9. Old BusinessA. Renewal of Governors Highway Safety Program grant Sheriff

Robert HollandB. Records retention schedule amendments Interim County

Manager

10.New BusinessA. Resolution regarding Mental Health LME Governance

Commissioner BealeB. Change Order Number 2 on Highlands School renovation

project Terry Bell


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C. Amendment to the Little Tennessee River Greenway Ordinance County Attorney

D.Interlocal agreement with the Town of Franklin regardinghazardous materials (HAZ MAT) trailer Emergency ServicesDirector David Key

E. Discussion regarding proposals for radio communicationsconsulting services Commissioner TateF. Interlocal agreement with the Town of Highlands regarding

recreation Finance DirectorG.Authorization for cancellation of CHAF deed of trust County

Attorney

11.Consent Agenda Attachment #11All items below are considered routine and will be enacted by one motion. Noseparate discussion will be held except on request of a member of the Board ofCommissioners.

A. Minutes of the September 10, 2013 regular meetingB. Budget Amendments #39-#41C.Tax ReleasesD.Tax RefundE. Changes to Macon County Public Health Fee Schedule (2)F. Monthly ad valorem tax collection report

12.AppointmentsA. Recreation Commission (2 seats)B.Joint Community Advisory Committee for the Adult Care Homes

and Nursing Homes of Macon County (3 seats)

13.Closed sessionA. Consultation with the attorney in order to preserve the

attorney-client privilege -- (NCGS 143-318.11(a)3)B. Personnel matters -- (NCGS 143-318.11(a)6)

14.Adjourn/Recess


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AGENDA ITEM

MEETING DATE: October 8, 2013

DEPARTMENT/AGENCY: Governing Board

SUBJECT MATTER: NCACC Video

DEPARTMENT HEAD COMMENTS/RECOMMENDATION:

At the request of the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners

(NCACC), we have a brief (approximately four minutes) video presentation

that includes an introduction from NCACC President Ray Jeffers and

includes NCACC staff members updating commissioners on steering

committees and how commissioners can participate. It also gives an

overview of an upcoming seminar on the Affordable Care Act and how it

affects counties as well as the NCACCs Risk Management Services.

COUNTY MANAGERS COMMENTS/RECOMMENDATION:

Attachments ______ Yes _X_ No

Agenda Item 2A


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AGENDA ITEM



SUBJECT MATTER: Proclamation for Mental Illness Awareness

Week


Ann Nandrea has requested that the board proclaim October 7-13, 2013 as

Mental Illness Awareness Week in Macon County. Please see the attached

proclamation for details.


Attachments ___X__ Yes ___ No

Agenda Item 8A


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Proclamation

MentalIllnessAwarenessWeek

October7 13,2013

WHEREAS, seriousmental illnesses such asmajor depression, bipolar disorder,

schizophrenia, obsessivecompulsive disorder, severe anxiety disorders,

borderlinepersonalitydisorder,andposttraumaticstressdisordersaffectonein

everyfourpeopleannually;

WHEREAS,seriousmental illnessesaremorecommonthancancer,diabetesand

heartdiseaseandarethenumberonereasonforhospitaladmissionsnationwide;

WHEREAS, seriousmental illnesseshavebeen scientificallyproven tobehighly

treatableillnessesofthebrain;

WHEREAS,scientific

research

is

producing

tremendous

breakthroughs

in

the

understanding of mental illnesses, resulting in more effective treatments that

allowpeopletoreclaimfullandproductivelives,

WHEREAS,misunderstanding exist aboutmanymental illnesses and our social

cultureoftenwronglyimposesstigmaonthem;

NOW,THEREFORERESOLVED, IKevinCorbin,ChairmanofMaconCountyBoard

ofCommissionersdoherebyproclaimOctober7 throughOctober13,2013 as

Mental

Illness

Awareness

Week

in

Macon

County

to

increase

public

awareness

of

mentalillness.

_________________________________

H.KevinCorbin,Chairman


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AGENDA ITEM



SUBJECT MATTER: Proclamation regarding Pancreatic Cancer

Awareness Month


Margaret Ramsey has requested that the board proclaim November as

Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month in Macon County. A copy of the

proclamation is attached. The board approved a similar proclamation last

year. In discussing this with Mrs. Ramsey, we opted to ask to have this on

the October agenda because the boards regular meeting in November falls

on the 12th.



Agenda Item 8B


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Proclamation

Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month

WHEREAS over 42,000 people will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer this year in the United Statesand over 35,000 will die from the disease with incidence of pancreatic cancer;

WHEREAS pancreatic cancer is the deadliest cancer and the fourth leading cause of cancer death in theUnited States and approximately over 1000 deaths will occur in North Carolina;

WHEREAS 76 percent of pancreatic cancer patients die within the first year of their diagnosis and 95

percent of pancreatic cancer patients die within the first five years; though pancreatic cancer kills twice asmany Americans as AIDS, it receives 39 times less funding for research;

WHEREAS there is no cure for pancreatic cancer and there have been no significant improvements inearly detection, treatment methods, or survival rates in the last 30 years;

WHEREAS when symptoms of pancreatic cancer present themselves, it is usually too late for anoptimistic prognosis, and the average life expectancy of those diagnosed with metastasis disease is onlythree to six months;

WHEREAS the Federal Government invests less money in pancreatic cancer research than it does in anyof the other leading cancer killers;

WHEREAS the good health and well-being of the residents of Macon County, North Carolina are

enhanced as a direct result of increased awareness about pancreatic cancer and research into earlydetection, causes, and effective treatments;

WHEREAS the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network is the first and only national patient advocacyorganization that serves the pancreatic cancer community in Macon County, North Carolina andnationwide by focusing its efforts on public policy, research funding, patient services, and publicawareness and education related to developing effective treatments and a cure for pancreatic cancer;

WHEREAS the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network and its affiliates in Macon County, North Carolinasupport those patients currently battling pancreatic cancer, as well as to those who have lost their lives tothe disease, and are committed to nothing less than a cure;

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Macon County Board of Commissioners designates the month

of November, 2013 Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month and specifically November 15th,

2013 asPancreatic Cancer Awareness Day in Macon County, North Carolina.

ADOPTED this the 8th

day of October, 2013

________________________________

H. Kevin Corbin, ChairmanMacon County Board of Commissioners


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AGENDA ITEM


DEPARTMENT/AGENCY: Community Funding Pool

SUBJECT MATTER: Recommendations for grants


Karen Wallace will be at the meeting to present the committeesrecommendations regarding the $50,000 in grants available from theCommunity Funding Pool this year. A list of those recommendations isattached.



Agenda Item 8C


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CommunityFundingPoolrecommendationsforFY201314

Organizationandcontactinformation RecommendedgrantamountAngel

Medical

Center

Ladies

Night

Out

Franklin,NC28734$577.40

ArtsCouncilofMaconCounty

BobbieContino,ExecutiveDirector

POBox726

Franklin,NC28744

$3,402.70

CommunityCareClinicofHighlandsCashiers,Inc.

JerryHermanson,ExecutiveDirector

POBox

43

Highlands,NC28741$3,764.12

HighlandsCommunityChildDevelopmentCenter,Inc.

RobertK.Wright,Treasurer

POBox648

Highlands,NC28741

$5,436.09

KidsInterDisciplinaryServices,Inc.(KIDSPlace)

AlishaAshe,ExecutiveDirector

POBox693

Franklin,NC28744

$10,000.00

LiteracyCouncil

of

Highlands

Highlands,NC28741$3,640.71

MaconCountyCareNet

Franklin,NC28734 $3,536.84

MaconProgramforProgress

FrancisDeWitt,CommunityServicesDirector

POBox700

Franklin,NC28744

$5,112.86

MountainMediationServicesLorraineJohnson,ExecutiveDirector

5WestMainSt.,Room141

Franklin,NC28734

$2,838.52

NAMI

Franklin,NC28734 $610.90


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REACHofMaconCounty,Inc.

AnnVanHarlilngen,ExecutiveDirector

POBox228

Franklin,NC28744

$10,000.00

Read2Me

Franklin,NC

28734

$1,079.87

Totalgrantrecommendations $50,000.00

AdditionalinformationaboutCommunityFundingPoolrequestsandrecommendations:

Totalgrantrequests 17agencies $114,588.00

TotalrecommendedbyCFPTaskForce

EvaluationProcess

12agencies $ 61,671.63

TotalavailablefromCommissionersforCFP 12agencies $ 50,000.00


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AGENDA ITEM


DEPARTMENT/AGENCY: Macon County Public Library

SUBJECT MATTER: Landscaping project/memorial garden


Karen Wallace will be at the meeting to provide more details on this project.

Per Ms. Wallace, the landscaping project would be a memorial garden for

Virginia Ramsey Brunner. Ms. Brunners sister, Nancy Ramsey, provided a

donation to fund the development of the garden. The ongoing maintenance

would be covered under the librarys existing contract with Carolina Nature

Scapes, per Ms. Wallace. Commissioner Beale is the liaison to the library,

and Ms. Wallace said that he advised that because this would be a permanent

change to the library grounds, the project would need to be brought to the

board of commissioners for approval. A scanned image of the memorial

garden proposed by Michael Wall of Carolina Nature Scapes is attached.



Agenda Item 8D


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AGENDA ITEM


DEPARTMENT/AGENCY: Sheriffs Office

SUBJECT MATTER: Renewal of Governors Highway Safety

Program Grant


Per Brian Welch, the staff attorney with the Macon County Sheriffs Office,the grant from the Governors Highway Safety Program is up for renewal,and the request is to have the board approve a resolution authorizing anAgency Official to sign the agreement and the project contract, and toappropriate the countys share of the expenses. Attached for your review arecopies of last years resolution as well as an updated Traffic Safety ProjectContract. That contract calls for a total project amount of $64,427, with thefederal amount at $45,099 and the local amount at $19,328, based on a 70/30split. Deputy Jonathan Phillips filled the Traffic Safety Officer position

created by the grant last year and is managing the grant application. SheriffHolland will be at the meeting to answer questions or provide additionalinformation.


Attachments ___X_ Yes ___ No

Agenda Item 9A


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Macon County Sheriffs Office

18 Patton Avenue

Franklin, NC 28734828-349-2607

Robert L. Holland, Sheriff

Page 1 of 1

MEMO

TO: Members, Board of Commissioners

FROM: Sheriff HollandDATE: October 8, 2013

RE: GHSP Grant 2nd Year Continuation______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

The Governors Highway Safety Program has approved a continuation of the grant that was

awarded to the Sheriffs Office last year for the federal fiscal year that began October 1, 2013. The

GHSP administers federal funding for the North Carolina Department of Transportation. To

accept the federal funds the Board of Commissioners must pass a Resolution authorizing my Office

to enter into a grant contract with GHSP and also to appropriate funds for the local match.

The original grant resulted in a new position being added in last years budget, a Traffic SafetyOfficer, which included salary and benefits, equipment and other expenses totaling $121,215; with

$103,033 being the federal share. Additional equipment expenses are not authorized after the first

year resulting in total funding for the 2nd year of $64,427 with the federal share being $45,099.

This grant can be extended for a third year with a 50% local match and GHSP requires the project

to continue for a fourth year with no federal funding as shown below:

Year Federal Macon County

1 85% ($103,033) 15% ($18,182)

2 70% ($45,099) 30% ($19,328)

3 50% 50%

4 0% 100%

________________ ________________

Totals $148,132 $37,510

With the number of traffic accidents and fatalities increasing in Macon County, especially on

Highway 441, traffic safety and enforcement has become more of a priority for my Office. The

Traffic Safety Officer has a flexible schedule and can prioritize the shifts he works to focus onholidays, gem shows, festivals, fairs and other events when we know traffic will increase. He is also

authorized to set up motor vehicle checking stations with patrol officers to reduce DWIs and other

traffic safety violations.

I respectfully request that you approve the grant contract and the $19,328 local match.


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AGENDA ITEM



SUBJECT MATTER: Records Retention Schedule Amendments


As you may recall, in May of this year, the board approved a records

retention schedule for the county, based upon an update of regulations by the

state Division of Archives and Records that govern how long certain public

records must be kept and under what conditions they may be destroyed. The

state Government Records Section has recently published four records

retention schedule amendments affecting counties that the board will need to

adopt. The amendments apply to the Board of Elections, County

Management, Register of Deeds and Tax Administration. Copies of all of

the amendments are attached for your review.

INTERIM COUNTY MANAGERS

COMMENTS/RECOMMENDATION:

Recommend approval and authorize signatures as needed.


Agenda Item 9B


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AGENDA ITEM



SUBJECT MATTER: Resolution regarding LME Mental Health

Governance


Attached please find a proposed resolution that urges the state Department of

Health and Human Services, the General Assembly and the governor to

delay, revisit and revise the requirements concerning the governance and

appointment of elected county officials as board members to the Smoky

Mountain LME/MCO Board of Directors. Commissioner Beale will have

much more to share on this issue at the meeting.



Agenda Item 10A


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AGENDA ITEM



SUBJECT MATTER: Change Order Number 2 for Highlands School

Renovation


Attached please find a copy of Change Order Number 2 on the HighlandsSchool Renovation project. This final change order represents an increase of$6,047 in the overall project and no additional contract time. The date ofsubstantial completion remains October 26, 2013. Terry Bell will beavailable to provide additional details and to answer questions. Per theFinance Director, there are sufficient funds in contingency to cover thischange order.



Agenda Item 10B


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AGENDA ITEM


DEPARTMENT/AGENCY: County Attorney

SUBJECT MATTER: Amendment to the Little Tennessee River

Greenway Ordinance


Please see the attached document prepared by the County Attorney

regarding this matter. Essentially, it amends the ordinance to allow for the

cutting or removal of vegetation from the greenway and for the use of

pesticides and/or herbicides. Any such activity would require written

authorization from the county, and must be done in compliance with any

conservation easements. The County Attorney can provide greater detail or

answer questions at the meeting.


As Mr. Jones has informed Sonja Sunny Himes, her group will need to secure

written approval from the North Carolina Clean Water Management Trust Fund

before the county can allow permission to proceed with the project.


Agenda Item 10C


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AN ORDINANCE AMENDING AN ORDINANCE REGULATING THE USE OF THE

LITTLE TENNESSEE RIVER GREENWAY, AS AMENDED

Whereas, on September 9, 2002, the Board of Commissioners of Macon County adopted an

ordinance entitled:An Ordinance Regulating the Use of the Little Tennessee River Greenway; and

Whereas, the Board of Commissioners desires to amend said ordinance as provided for

hereinafter; and

Whereas, the Board of Commissioners has determined that the citizens of Macon County will

be better served by amending such Ordinance as provided for hereinafter.

Now therefore be it ordained that the Board of Commissioners of Macon County, pursuant

to N.C. Gen. Stat. 153A-121, hereby amends the Macon County Ordinance, entitled,An Ordinance

Regulating the Use of the Little Tennessee River Greenway, as heretofore amended, as follows:

First Amendment

Section 28.303. Damage to Property, is amended by adding the following as two new paragraphs

at the end of G:

That notwithstanding the foregoing, Macon County may authorize individuals and/or entities to kill,

cut, maintain and/or remove vegetation from the Greenway. Any such killing, cutting, maintaining

and/or removal of vegetation shall not constitute a violation of this Ordinance. Such authorization

shall be in writing from the County and shall be consistent with any applicable Conservation

Easements

That notwithstanding the foregoing, Macon County may authorize individuals and/or entities to use

pesticides and/or herbicides at the Greenway. Any such application of pesticides and/or herbicides

at the Greenway shall not constitute a violation of this Ordinance. Such authorization shall be in

writing from Macon County and shall be consistent with any applicable Conservation Easements.

These amendments to An Ordinance Regulating the Use of the Little Tennessee River

Greenway are adopted by the Board of Commissioners pursuant to N.C. Gen. Stat. 153A-121 on

the 8 day of October, 2013.th

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Board of Commissioners of Macon County

By:________________________________

Kevin Corbin, Chairman

Attest:

_______________________________

Clerk to the Board

( County Seal )

2


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AGENDA ITEM


DEPARTMENT/AGENCY: Governing Board/Emergency Services

SUBJECT MATTER: Interlocal Agreement with the Town of

Franklin regarding hazardous materials (HAZ MAT) trailer


Please see the attached agreement for more information. Emergency

Services Director David Key will be available to provide details and answer

questions. The Town of Franklin Board of Aldermen will consider this

agreement at their regular meeting on Monday night.



Agenda Item 10D


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STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA

COUNTY OF MACON INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT

THIS AGREEMENT, made this ____ day of _____________, 2013, by and between theCOUNTY OF MACON, a body politic and corporate of the State of North Carolina (hereinafter

sometimes referred to as the County) and the TOWN OF FRANKLIN, a body politic and

corporate of the state of North Carolina (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the Town):

WITNESSETH:

WHEREAS, the County owns a towable trailer currently utilized as a response vehicle for

hazardous materials emergencies acquired through Homeland Security funding; and

WHEREAS, the Town desires to enhance its response capabilities to hazardous materials

emergencies, and the County hereby finds that it is in the Countys best interest to aid the Town inenhancing such capabilities; and

WHEREAS, the Town has indicated that if the County will allow it access to and use of the

trailer, that the Town will respond with the same to any hazardous materials incidents throughout the

County as provided for herein; and

WHEREAS, the County and Town wish to commemorate their agreement concerning the

use and equipping of the said trailer for responding to hazardous materials emergencies.

NOW THEREFORE, the parties hereto agree as follows:

I. The County agrees:A. To allow the Town to use, maintain and store the trailer in accordance with this

Agreement.

B. The County shall maintain ownership of the trailer, shall maintain property insurancethereon, and shall be entitled to use and possession of the same at any time when it

has a need for the same.

C. The said trailer is currently stocked with both consumable and non-consumablesupplies appropriate for responding to hazardous materials emergencies. The Countyshall remain responsible for the replacement of any non-consumable supplies during

the term of this agreement, except for those damaged or destroyed by the Town.


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D. In the event the County desires to equip the trailer with any specialized equipmentnot recommended and/or approved by the Town, the County will supply such

equipment at the Countys sole expense.

E. If the County becomes eligible for any grant funding not available to the Town forthe purchase and/or provision of hazardous materials incident responses, the County

will consider utilizing such grant funds to expand the capabilities of this agreement

to provide adequate responses to hazardous materials incidents county-wide.

II. The Town agrees:

A. To house, maintain, and further expand the capabilities of said equipment, and to

perform routine maintenance, calibration, testing or other such services as needed on

the trailer and equipment during the term of this Agreement.

B. To allow the County to use and possess the equipment upon its request, and to allow

the County to verify its capabilities and readiness in the use of the same at any time

within reasonable hours.

C. The Town agrees to stock, resupply, and maintain adequate stores of appropriate

hazardous materials incident response equipment at the Towns sole expense

adequate to respond to hazardous materials emergencies typically occurring within

our area. The Town shall also be responsible in its sole expense for replacement of

consumable supplies, referred to in section I.C above. In the event that any non-

consumable equipment becomes inoperable due to system failure, etc Town will

notify County of such and dispose of said equipment at the discretion of County.The Town will pay for any non-consumable equipment that is damaged or destroyed

by it.

D. In the event such supplies are consumed during a hazardous materials response the

Town agrees to seek reimbursement from responsible parties through methods

approved in a separate service contract between Town and County for provision of

fire and rescue services.

E. In the event that the scope of any hazardous materials incident exceeds the

capabilities of the Town the Town agrees to contact the County and request that it

seek assistance through existing mutual aid agreements for technical assistance fromother agencies such as NC Regional Response Team 6 or other such adequately

trained and equipped agencies and/or departments.

F. The Town agrees to implement a response program and to respond to hazardous

materials incidents throughout the County through current mutual aid agreements


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within Macon County whereby the equipment and trailer may be requested by

Emergency Management or another Fire Department to respond to any other area of

Macon County. In the event that, due to constraints beyond the Towns control the

Town cannot respond with the trailer and equipment, the Town agrees toimmediately notify the County Emergency Director and allow the County immediate

access to the facility where the trailer and equipment are housed to facilitate

transportation of necessary equipment by other means.

G. The Town agrees to cooperate with area fire and rescue agencies for training

purposes to facilitate effective joint responses to hazardous materials incidents.

III. Both parties agree:

A. The County Manager and the Town Manager are authorized to administer this

Agreement on behalf of the County and the Town, respectively, as necessary.

B. The Town, in entering into this Agreement is acting as an independent contractor and

is not an agent or joint venturer of the County in connection with this Agreement or

in connection with any other agreement between the Town and the County, express

or implied.

C. This Agreement shall be for a term of three (3) years from the date of execution

hereof. Unless sooner terminated as provided herein, this Agreement shall be

automatically renewed for successive periods of three (3) years.

E. This Agreement may be terminated upon written notice by either party, said writtennotice to be delivered to the manager of the non-cancelling party. Each party hereto

shall endeavor to give the other party as much notice as possible before terminating

this Agreement pursuant to this provision.

F. In the event this Agreement is terminated or expires, the trailer will be returned toCounty along with any equipment acquired by the County and any consumable

supplies remaining from the initial inventory of supplies and equipment when

initially transferred. Any consumable and non-consumable equipment acquired by

the Town, other than non-consumable equipment replaced by the Town due to its

damage or destruction of the same, will be retained by the Town.

G. The County and the Town may, from time to time, execute and deliver suchamendments to this Agreement and such further instruments as may be required or

desired for carrying out the expressed intention of this Agreement.


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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the County and the Town have caused this contract to be

executed in duplicate originals all as of the date and year first above written.

COUNTY OF MACON

By:________________________________________

Name

Title: __________________________________

ATTEST:

________________________________________

TOWN OF FRANKLIN

By:________________________________________Name

Title: __________________________________

ATTEST:

_____________________________________


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AGENDA ITEM


DEPARTMENT/AGENCY: Emergency Services

SUBJECT MATTER: Discussion regarding proposals for radio

communications consulting services


Commissioner Tate will lead a discussion regarding two proposals received

from firms that specialize in analyzing emergency communications, one

from Mission Critical Partners and the other from Federal Engineering, Inc.

Copies of both documents are attached. As Commissioner Tate has pointed

out in an e-mail, There are some very obvious deficiencies in our current

system which was designed 30 years ago and the hope is that we can make

some significant improvements to it.



Agenda Item 10E


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Radio Assessment

SUBMITTED SEPTEMBER 24, 2013 TO:

Macon County GovernmentMacon County, North Carolina

REQUESTFOR

PROPOSAL


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i

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Transmittal Letter............................................................................................................................. 1

Introduction ..................................................................................................................................... 2

Corporate Overview ......................................................................................................................... 2

Scope of Work ................................................................................................................................ 12

Analysis And Data Collection .................................................................................................................... 12

Project Initialization Meeting ............................................................................................................................................ 12

First Responder Stakeholder Level Assessments .............................................................................................................. 12

Coverage Requirements Analysis ...................................................................................................................................... 13

PSAP and Dispatch Operations Analysis ........................................................................................................................... 13

Recommendations ............................................................................................................................................................ 17

System Backhaul Analysis ................................................................................................................................................. 17

Recommendations ............................................................................................................................................................ 18

County-to-County Interoperability Analysis ..................................................................................................................... 18

Major Deliverables ............................................................................................................................................................ 19

Project Experience .......................................................................................................................... 19

Project Team .................................................................................................................................. 24

Organizational Chart................................................................................................................................. 24

Resumes .................................................................................................................................................. 25

Project Pricing ................................................................................................................................ 30


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1

TRANSMITTAL LETTER

September 24, 2013

James P. Tate, Commissioner

Macon County NC Government

5 West Main Street

Franklin, North Carolina 28734

Re: Radio Communications Consulting Services

Dear Commissioner Tate:

Mission Critical Partners, Inc. (MCP) appreciates the opportunity to provide this letter proposal for

Radio Communications Systems support to Macon County, North Carolina. We sincerely appreciate

the ongoing dialogue that has resulted in this Scope of Work.

Mr. James Bitting, ENP, PMP, will serve as the point of contact for services related to radio and

wireless systems. Please do not hesitate to contact him in his office at 814-753-4387, on his cell at

412-952-1964 or via email at [email protected].

MCP stands ready to provide the support necessary for the County to continue to demonstrate success

in its effort to improve the service of 9-1-1 and emergency communications for its citizens and first

responders.

Please contact me with any questions and/or comments that you may have. I can be contacted at

(919) 210-5255 (cell), (919) 322-8607 (direct, office), or via email at [email protected]. On

behalf of our entire team, we stand by our goal to serve as your partner and your advocate.

Kind Regards,

MISSION CRITICAL PARTNERS, INC.

Phillip Penny

Business Development Specialist


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2

INTRODUCTION

Mission Critical Partners Inc. (MCP) is pleased to offer our services to Macon County, North Carolina

(County). MCP provides a proposal that captures the spirit and intent of the work requested by the

County.

MCP will work as an advocate for the County to develop a solution set that best serves the Countys

operational, technical and fiscal objectives. Developing such a solution requires clear communications

between MCP and the County through single points of contact. It is anticipated that the solution will

achieve short and long term goals of the County. MCP is a Pennsylvania based company with

extensive experience in working with Public Safety Agencies at all levels of Government. We will

leverage that experience to enhance Macon Countys capabilities in an effective and efficient manner.

CORPORATE OVERVIEW

Mission Critical Partners, Inc. is a corporation founded on December 29, 2008 under the laws of the

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and began its business operations on February 2, 2009. .

Our company is fully staffed, has a total of five regional offices in three different states, and has

sustained significant growth in this industry. We are now in our fifth year of operation. As of September

15, 2013, the company had over 65 full and part-time staff supporting municipal, county, regional, state

and federal clients across the nation.

MCP is organized to respond effectively to client needs. We are a privately held corporation with

traditional sales, technical and support staff; however, our management philosophy differentiates theway we support our clients. Five owners serve as mentors to corporate level team leads responsible

for day-to-day operations. An executive planning team composed of the owners, corporate team leads

and mid-level management deals with strategic items.

MCP is a comprehensive public safety consultant rather than a firm with a single focus or

specialization. Our practice areas, below, are driven by subject matter experts in each of the respective

fields in other words, our specialization is in all areas of public safety from operations to technology.

A detailed corporate profile and areas of service follow.

Operations/FacilitiesRadio/Wireless Network/911

Emergency Management

Communications

Enterprise Client

Consulting


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3

CORPORATE PROFILE

Mission Critical Partners, Inc. (MCP) is committed to delivering top quality

technical and operational consulting services to help managers overcome

mission critical challenges.

Our award-winning team consists of former public safety managers,

project management professionals (PMPs), and technology, forensic and

policy specialists. MCP principals have each invested more than two

decades in the 9-1-1 industry and continue to serve in key leadership

roles in all the major industry organizationsNENA, APCO, and iCERT

and as advisors to key federal and state governmental bodies. Our goal

is to support our life safety communications clients through improved

policy, systems and processes. Our mission is to be your partner.

As former clients ourselves, we add value by understanding how policy,

financing, governance, operations, and technology must converge to

holistically solve complex issues. We are committed to listening, being

responsive, consistent, accountable, objective and visionary.

We work with our clients to develop a sound approach by first seeking to

understand the challenge, analyzing the data and information available

and developing a durable resolution. We provide unbiased

recommendations and are independent of vendors providing mission

critical products.

SERVICE AREAS

Executive Consulting and Master Planning

Next Generation 9-1-1

Land Mobile Radio

Facility and Technology Design and Integration

Broadband Deployment

Shared Services and Consolidation

Emergency Management Communications

Forensics and Systems Analysis

OFFICE LOCATIONS

We serve clients across North America with offices in the following locations.

Corporate Headquarters: 690 Grays Woods Boulevard, Port Matilda, PA 16870

Phone: 888-862-7911; Fax: 814-217-6807

Branch Off ices: 4801 Glenwood Avenue, Suite 200, Raleigh, NC 27612

502 N. Carroll Avenue, Suite 120, Southlake, TX 76092

2578 Interstate Drive, Suite 106, Harrisburg, PA 17110

105 Bradford Road, Suite 400, Wexford, PA 15090


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LAND MOBILE RADIO

Mission Critical Partners, Inc. (MCP) has a staff of highly qualified radio

experts. Our team has a varied background ranging from technicians in large

municipal radio systems to persons holding electrical engineering degrees.However, all of our staff has one thing in common first-hand knowledge and

experience as public safety users of two way radio. This unique combination

of experience and education brings you a team dedicated to the success of

your project.

Our team approaches your project with only one task in mind your

success. This is accomplished through our unique approach that

determines your operational needs and designs a radio network around

your needs and budget. Many agencies have operational constraints

because of the design and operation of their radio network. The network

should serve public safety users and be yet another tool to keep our first

responders and communities safe. The protection of life and property

begins with a single dispatch. From there, the radio system is the link that

connects and delivers your response and services to your citizens. It is

far too important to trust to anyone other than your partner, your advocate,

and your agent for innovative solutions.

EXPERIENCE INCLUDES:

Design

Propagation Studies

Procurement

Project 25, SmartNet/SmartZONE, EDACS and other Open and

Proprietary Signaling Protocols EME, MPE, and Interference Studies

FCC License Applications, Amendments and Coordination

Microwave and Wireless Broadband

Lease Lines and Commercial Telecom Systems

Proprietary and Open Telecom Standards

Network Transport Services and Protocols Including Analog andDigital

Customer Premise Equipment

Routers and Switches

Mobile Data and Applications

Punch List Development Acceptance Testing

Master Planning (Capital Plan, Operational Impact, Schedule andGovernance)

Implementation and Project Management

IP Networks


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NEXT GENERATION 9-1-1

The Mission Critical Partners, Inc. (MCP) staff has extensive experience with

planning, designing, procuring, negotiating and implementing all Next Generation

9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) call delivery and processing elements. As stated throughout theindustry, Next Generation is a journey. Simply put, the Public Safety Answering

Point (PSAP) environment will continually evolve with new technologies,

processes and expectations. The MCP project team lays out a clear Master Plan

that recognizes the impact NG9-1-1 has on all aspects of the PSAP. As Next

Generation drivers, MCP helps elected officials, PSAP managers, stakeholders

and funding agencies understand the NG9-1-1 impact upon all PSAP systems

including technology, human, policy and funding.

The MCP approach is to establish a thorough understanding of the

environment unique to each PSAP or region. This includes funding models,

system life-cycle analysis, objectives, incident processing approach, networkresources, and governance opportunities. While many firms simply want to discuss call delivery, MCP

develops a plan for incident processing in the PSAP, incident dispatch and data management. MCP

develops a comprehensive Master Plan for the agency or region and a conceptual design to NG9-1-1

deployment. The Master Plan considers all options and establishes timely deployment by incrementally

upgrading technology and recommending policy, funding and governance modifications.

EXPERIENCE INCLUDES:

Master Planning (Capital Plan, Operational Impact, Schedule & Governance)

Design

Procurement (Network, CPE) Network Services

Systems Convergence and Integration

Microwave & Wireless Broadband

Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD)

ESInet Core Functions

Records Management

Customer Premise Equipment

Routers

Switches

Mobile Data

Applications

Punch List Development

Acceptance Testing

Implementation Project Management

IP Networks

ESInet


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EXECUTIVE CONSULTING AND MASTER PLANNING

Mission Critical Partners, Inc. (MCP) partners with clients to develop customized technical and

operational solutions for life safety communications. Our staff has extensive experience serving in

public sector and public safety management roles and applies that depth of real-world knowledge toadvocating for our clients. Through our first-hand experience, we have earned the reputation for being

accountable, prudent, persistent, progressive and reliable problem solvers.

MCP provides services that are initiated at a strategic level. An integral part of our executive level

consulting is providing master planning services. Our team of policy specialists collaborates with

clients to create comprehensive plans that help direct decision making in the public safety sector. In

developing a strategic plan, MCP incorporates master planning, organizational structuring, hiring

assistance, fiscal planning, operations and technology and policy solutions.

By seeking to understand and assembling a strategy that serves as a guide, MCP is able to execute a

comprehensive, tactical approach that addresses all elements of the clients sphere of influence. Our

team directs its collective energy on understanding the full scope of the clients responsibility and

objectives. We evaluate the unique challenges that stand in the way of achieving success. MCP

mitigates those challenges by leveraging policy, as well as human, technological and fiscal assets to

develop a sustainable solution.

Our clients are responsible for delivering reliable

service 24/7 to first responders and the public

while operating with limited resources. In

recognition of the need to achieve more with less,

MCP works to put the client in a position to domore with more. This means structuring

organizations, programs and projects for available

grant funding through policy development,

technology and appropriate fiscal planning.

SERVICES INCLUDE:

Budget and Fiscal Planning

Long-range Capital Planning

Strategic and Technology Planning

Grant Compliance

Policy Development and Support

Master Planning

Governance

Organizational Development


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FACILITY AND TECHNOLOGY DESIGN AND INTEGRATION

Mission Critical Partners, Inc. (MCP) brings more than 25 years of experience in planning, designing

and integrating mission critical technology and operations into new and renovated facilities. Our team

applies hands-on experience with Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs), Emergency OperationsCenters (EOCs), Fusion Centers and Call Centers to develop the solution that best fits the clients

needs. We are familiar with the requirements of mission critical facility architectural and engineering

design and are highly qualified to manage the many complexities that arise with each building project.

We also apply our understanding of all elements of the facility construction including site development,

electrical, mechanical, structural, security and technology to coordinate systems install, acceptance,

training and operational transition.

The focus of every project is to optimize the functional use of the space for operational integrity. MCP

works closely with the client to develop the technology solutions, migration schedule and operations

floor layout.

SERVICES INCLUDE:

Facility Planning and Programming Hazard Vulnerability Assessment Spatial Allocation Adjacency Requirements Workstation Orientation Power, HVAC, Security and Structural Requirements System Redundancy and Diversity Infrastructure Requirements Tower Location and Path Studies

Facility Construction Coordination Project Management System Install Coordination Contractor Resolution Systems Acceptance Commissioning, Training, Scheduling, Migration/Transition Planning

Design Solutions Architectural Coordination Low Voltage and Data Cable Management Rack, Cable Tray, Pathway and Conduit All Mission Critical Systems (CAD/RMS, CPE and Telephony,

Logging, Video Walls, Workstations, Consoles and Interfaces,Security, Network and Tower)

Procurement Support (RFP Development, Vendor ProposalReview/Recommendation/Selection/Negotiation)

Migration and Transition Services Project Management Scheduling Vendor Coordination Cutover Support Decommissioning Services


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BROADBAND DEPLOYMENT

The FCCs National Broadband Plan: Connecting America projects 150% growth in broadband

deployment to reach underserved citizens in the future. A nationwide broadband wireless network holds

great promise as an economic stimulus and for improving public safety. Mission Critical Partners, Inc.(MCP) leverages expertise and consulting services to assist clients in maximizing the opportunities for

implementation of broadband ecosystem networks that meet these critical needs. Two decades

invested in life safety communications has equipped our team to navigate the complex broadband

issues.

Mission Critical Partners improves public safety and homeland

security through roadmaps for transitioning to an Emergency Service

Internet Protocol Network (ESInet). The technology:

Allows first responders to send and receive video and data

Reduces costs through interagency collaboration

Helps support opportunities to acquire additional funding

required for operating expenses

Promotes innovation in the development and deployment of

Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) and emergency alert

systems

As a foundation for a projects success, MCP drives meaningful

government and civic engagements with representatives in support of

local efforts to deploy broadband technologies. We also help entities

understand and follow policies and standards to maximize incentives

for national priorities in health care, public education and economic opportunity.

To ensure value for the clients investment, MCP collects and analyzes benchmarks and published

market-by-market information on broadband pricing and competition. We then provide comprehensive

reviews of wholesale competition rules, make recommendations that include innovative approaches to

FCC changes, and ensure efficient collaborative allocation and use of government-owned and

government-influenced assets.

BROADBAND SERVICES INCLUDE:

Governance Development

Network Gap Analysis

Network Architecture Design

Request for Proposal (RFP) Development

Vendor Implementation Oversight

Network Operations Framework Development with an IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL) Emphasis

Broadband Security Gap Analysis


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EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES

Emergency management coordinators lead the readiness efforts of local, county and state government

through planning and organization. Mission Critical Partners, Inc. (MCP) supports emergency

managers with expertise in emergency operations, incident command, and the planning and systemsdesignated to support operational integrity.

The MCP team provides communications support services by following a disciplined, well-organized

approach for realizing county, regional and statewide interoperability objectives.

SERVICE PROFILE AND EXPERTISE INCLUDE:

Communications Planning

Master Plans

TICP Plans

Interoperability

Integration

Voice and Data

Resource Management Applications

GIS

Security Systems

Video Display

Public Notification

Alert and Warning Systems

EOC Facility

Programming and Planning

Design Services Hazard Vulnerability Assessments

Infrastructure

Towers/Shelters/Connectivity

Security

Facility

Procedures and Operating Guidelines

Training

Interoperability

Assessment

Planning

Design

Procurement Support

Vendor Negotiations

Project Management and Implementation


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SHARED SERVICES AND CONSOLIDATION

Throughout North America government is asking, How can we do

more with less? Communications centers are impacted by this

question as budgets become tighter, technology matures,operational demands become more complex and training

increases. Many are finding that consolidation is a solution to

consider. The Mission Critical Partners, Inc. (MCP) team has

extensive experience with consolidation efforts in past public sector

roles and as consultants.

We recognize that elected and public safety leaders strive to

provide the most effective and efficient emergency response

system possible. Ultimately, the delivery of quality life safety

services is the achievable objective. MCP develops a collaborative

approach with our clients to assess the opportunity for operational

and administrative efficiencies through potential consolidation,

collocation or organizational change. The MCP teams impartial

and even-handed approach has a proven track record of success.

Todays economic realities require a thorough program analysis to

define a future path of economizing while effectively delivering

service. Appropriately applied, consolidation or collocation can

achieve operational efficiencies through systemic interoperability

via staffing, scheduling, technology, training and reduction in

systems cost basis.

By seeking to understand the answer to What is success? MCP establishes addressing that question

as the project objective. MCP appreciates the necessary balance required of seemingly competing

objectives with operations, organizational, technology, fiscal, human resources, and governance

issues. The variables and constraints associated with each are carefully weighed to develop an

approach with a lasting solution. MCP is sensitive to the sense of ownership and loyalty each

community and agency has with a local communications center. We honor the history of service while

providing an independent view of how the community is best served by advancing to the future.

To assure a comprehensive transition that is as smooth as possible, we also provide assistance with

the migration efforts and the many challenges inherent in combining organization, facility, technology

and operational resources. The convergence into a unified communications environment can be painful

in the absence of proper planning and execution. MCP actively works toward pain avoidance by

converging all aspects of the emergency communications environment into an all-inclusive solution.


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FORENSICS AND SYSTEMS ANALYSIS

Proven advocacy skills for our clients are the crux of Mission

Critical Partners, Inc. (MCP) forensics services. Forensics

analysis can be used to locate the root cause(s) of a systemfailure, verify receipt of full value on a contract or purchase

and assist in a formal court determination of facts.

By establishing current conditions and benchmarking against

recognized communications best practices, the MCP team

develops a practical solution set for improvement in service

delivery. Our team provides change agent services for sustainable organizational recovery. Each

forensic engagement involves a comprehensive three-step investigation: (1) Data Gathering and Fact

Finding (2) Analysis and Perspective and (3) Findings and Recommendations.

CONTRACT COMPLIANCEMCP represents our clients interests by executing a logical information gathering process to

understand contract objectives and then performing a methodical review of documents and

responsibilities. If we find discrepancies, MCP recommends a corrective course of action. We establish

a plan with milestones, metrics, communications and responsibilities and manage client risk to

maximize return on investment.

9-1-1 INVOICE FORENSIC REVIEW

MCP has a knowledge base in tariff structure and related invoicing that often reveals overpayment for

services. The MCP team specializes in 9-1-1 network, routing, database and fee collection. Applying

our forensics skills, we generate findings and recommendations for cost recovery and negotiate

settlements on behalf of our clients at little financial risk to the client.

9-1-1 INCIDENT FORENSICS

MCP provides assessment services to define and mitigate risk. Any system can

have components (or technicians) that do not perform as intended, potentially

resulting in a loss of life or property. In a pre-event environment, our team

evaluates call routing, switching, database integrity, system performance,

operating guidelines, and training for service optimization. Post-event, MCP

assesses equipment or process failures to define causal effects. We understand

the high visibility of any event where system or human error negatively impacts

reliable 9-1-1 service, and we offer improvement recommendations without prejudice.

Systems analysis, design and implementation are otherkey services MCP provides. In todays mission

critical environment, the various technologies and applications used to manage risk are integrated with

one another in the successful operational environment, and no one system stands alone. By

understanding the need for high reliability, low risk performance in the 24/7 world, MCP applies our

extensive knowledge of technology, telecommunications, policy, operations, and accountability to

achieve success on behalf of the client.


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SCOPE OF WORK

ANALYSIS AND DATA COLLECTION

Project Initialization Meeting

MCP will meet with Macon County within ten business (10) days of project award to conduct a project

kickoff meeting. During that meeting, various administrative actions to include introduction of team

members, team responsibilities and expectations of the project will be reviewed. Any changes to

project expectations from the submission of this scope of work will be reviewed and discussed. The

project manager (PM) and County staff establish project schedule, finalize project report requirements

and develop contact lists and a communications plan.

During the second part of the meeting, our team will work with the County to review and discuss in

further detail the overall project plan and the detailed work plan. MCP and County representatives will

agree on the information to be gathered on systems, resources, operational procedures and issues in

the County and identify any sensitive topics to be examined and reported on. The team reviews the

information and details available on the existing system and sites, potential tower sites/facilities,

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) licenses, and contact information for stakeholders.

A step-by-step review of the content illustrated final deliverables for the project will be conducted to

during the Project Initialization meeting. Any updates or changes will be made to ensure that all

expectations by the County are correctly documented.

First Responder Stakeholder L evel Assessm ents

Up to two (2) separate meetings will be conducted with First Responder level stakeholders to

accommodate any specific needs by this group. At times, these stakeholders may have a somewhat

different perspective as day-to-day system users. MCP will include the specific issues presented by the

First Responder stakeholders and document them as a part of the assessment.

MCP anticipates that discussions will be held with representatives from public safety agencies in Law

Enforcement; Fire; and emergency medical agencies and dispatch representatives. The discussions

are designed to capture an understanding of the following:

System concerns: technological or operational limits perceived by users in the function of the

system or other factors which affect agency communications.

Locations where individuals perceive radio reception as limited or unavailable

Future system operation, features and equipment requirements, such as:

Field unit (mobile and portable) features and accessories

Interoperability requirements

Paging and messaging systems

Encryption and other enhanced features


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Mobile Data applications

Dispatching and related operations

This list is representative of the typical data to be collected. MCP expects to finalize the data collection

elements during project initiation.

Coverage Requirements Analysis

Radio propagation analysis and modeling is accomplished using EDX, Signal Pro to develop

conceptual coverage expectations and create preliminary approximations for sites location and

configuration. MCP will review existing documentation concerning site transmission and field unit

reception requirements to review site design expectations. Interference and radiation considerations

will be evaluated to determine system design or site development requirements.

Our team will also review any historical prediction documents made available during this task to review

previous recommendations with the County. Once analysis is completed, it will be reviewed with the

County to identify areas requiring specific coverage levels to determine if any additional sites would be

required to enhance coverage in those areas.

PSAP and Dispatch Operations A nalysis

Analysis of the Countys PSAP will generally fall into some specific areas of investigation. The team

will discuss the approach to evaluation of the PSAP during project initiation to ensure that the approach

is sufficient to capture data in key focus areas.

Console System EvaluationThe Dispatch Console System performs key functions and must meet specific requirements. The

existing console system will be evaluated in the context of how it meets the dispatch requirements in its

current capacity. This information will be gauged against characteristics of modern dispatching.

MCP will conduct an evaluation of the PSAP/Dispatch Center to include:

System support for radio channel requirements

Modular design and ability to support local and remote operator positions

Reliability with no single points of failure (i.e. any position shall be able to back-up any other

position with full features and functions)

Network configurationability of the supervisor or system administrator to access and updatepositions from a central location

Software programming/hardware reconfiguration requirements

Ability to store, retrieve, and edit multiple custom operator screens and configurations for each

operator position

Auxiliary switch and indicators for external devices


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Operator Position Equipment Evaluation

Each operator position has a number of characteristics including the technical operation of the system,

the quality of the position, the ergonomic design and ease of operation which can impact an individuals

focus and concentration over extended periods (typically eight to twelve hours). MCP will review these

characteristics to determine how effective the current design is at meeting expectations along with thepotential changes in the new system. Items to be considered include:

Display Screen: flexibility, number of tabs, functions available at each operator position

Quantity of items on the screen at one time, radio dispatch functions from one screen display

Channels available at each operator position, how these channels appear on the screen, names

associated with channels, channel options, auxiliary outputs and auxiliary indicators, etc.

Construction, material durability, etc.

Equipment Evaluation would include at a minimum the review of the following items:

Display, keyboard, mouse

Microphone

Headset and footswitch operation Speakers (Select, Unselect, etc.)

Computers

LAN Interconnection

Conventional/Trunking Requirements

A review of some of the current trunked or conventional capabilities at the operator position will provide

insight into functional use of the console system and what capabilities may be more desirable than

others in design of the new system. Items include:

Soft key/on screen transmit function and resource configuration

Monitor or transmit function of proposed and existing radio channels Call indicator for radio channels controlled from dispatch

Multiple channel selection

Position patching of two or more channels for field users to communicate directly

Cross mute at a position in order to eliminate localized noise and potential feedback between

operators

Unselected audio preset un-mute capabilities

Telephone and radio operation from a single headset

Instant recall recorder

Type (independent and common) audio level controls for radio volume and telephone volume to

the headsets

CAD Interface

MCP will evaluate the CAD system and its interface to the console. Historical data will be reviewed to

determine if there are any recurring issues which could impact the design and replacement of the

current dispatch system. Data will be collected on the Manufacturer, Type, Installation Date and other

relevant data.


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Instant Recall Recorder

Type of Instant Recall Record and its function will be evaluated during the PSAP analysis. Length of

recording per channel and method of controlling the instant recall recorder will be evaluated.

Telephone InterfaceType of telephone integration, display and control functions at that position will be evaluated.

Central Equipment

Evaluation of the central equipment condition and function to include collection of information on the

following information:

Equipment Racks

Make

Model

Detailed rack layout/elevation drawings for each location

Power Supply Technical specifications

Redundancy

Local Operator Interface

Remote Operator Interface

Conventional Base Station Interface

Trunking Network Interface

CAD

Logging Recorder Interface

Radio select audio

Operator audio

I/O and Auxiliary Interfaces

Special Interfaces

Time Sync Input

Ethernet 10/100 Base T

Logging Printer and Alarm Indications

Communications Sites

New Site Selection and DevelopmentThere are a number of challenges in acquiring new site locations. MCP will work with the County to

evaluate locations selected as candidates for site construction and work to identify suitable locations

based on key aspects of system design. Each site location must contribute to the overall picture of

system coverage which presents key characteristics of site selection to consider.

Site Acquisition

Early in the analysis phase, it will be important to identify candidate locations and begin reviewing the

possibility to include them in the system design. RF Propagation analysis is a tool that can be used to


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identify locations within the county that could be considered optimal locations for site construction and

to provide the best coverage with the fewest number of sites to construct. These candidates would be

compared to existing locations, areas with perceived value due to their location and county owned land

parcels that can be considered places that could provide optimal coverage. These among other factors

will be reviewed with the County to identify the best approach to identify site locations. Identification of candidate locations

Evaluation of propagation studies

Review of currently considered candidate locations

Comparison with initial studies for analysis

Research potential environmental issues which could be initial roadblock

Explore alternatives for lease site locations

Initial consideration of FAA and FCC requirements

Permitting and zoning impact considerations

These are all steps in the process, but many will be accomplished concurrently and independently insome cases, but MCP will work with the County to optimize the tasks.

Site Development

Once the candidate locations have been selected, the team will conduct surveys and document current

conditions and availability. Availability can be confirmed for each locations proposed by contacting

lease owners and confirming availability and costs. Any required approvals for new construction or

modifications to existing locations can be identified along with estimates of costs associated with capita

and recurring expenses at each location. Size and scale of the system would be further defined once

the conceptual design is completed.

Communications sites are a key component of the systems infrastructure. MCP will collect data aboutthe sites to determine their current configuration and identify modifications which may be necessary to

accommodate the new site equipment. Areas of evaluation include:

Cable and wiring management systems

Power service (minimum ampere service based on existing equipment and equipment to be

installed)

Compliment of power outlets and circuit breakers to accommodate the site reconfiguration

HVAC configuration (single, dual lead/lag configuration, etc.)

Interior grounding systems

Lightning and surge protection systems

Cable entry ports total/occupied/available

Generator type, service, capacity, etc.

Uninterruptable Power System or sufficient battery backup depending on equipment

configuration and primary power requirements

Security and fire detection systems

OSHA requirements for personnel safety kits, eye wash stations (if batteries are used),

etc.

Internal grounding system bonded to site grounding system


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Alarm connections and interface requirement

Antenna systems

Master ground bus to properly ground antenna cables

Ice bridge between the tower and shelter

Grounded to ground bus at feed line entrance ports

Equipment remaining

Racks remaining in facility

Evaluate serviceability

Grounding system documentation is reviewed and all shelters, equipment cabinets,

fences and grounding systems are assessed to document they are properly connected

to the ground, according to current industry standards.

Master ground system documentation is reviewed; 4-point soil conductivity test results to

ensure proper ground construction and five ohms or less resistance

Installation of video surveillance system to deter copper theft and vandalism

New Equipment Proper install in shelters

Rack mounted equipment

Review equipment maintenance records and logbooks

Video surveillance system at remote locations to deter copper theft and vandalism

Recommendat ions

Upon completion of the Countys PSAP analysis, a report of the findings will be used to develop a

comprehensive recommendation which would include to what extent any existing equipment and

systems can be preserved or upgraded. Physical conditions and operation will be further evaluated to

determine system life cycle replacement options. MCP intends to review the list of our proposed areasfor data collection with the County during project initiation to ensure county specific requirements are

included. MCP will endeavor to identify and review various options for the County to review in making

the final determination on dispatch systems.

System Backhaul Analysis

Microwave / Wireless Backhaul Analysis:

A physical assessment of the systems used to connect the PSAP and EOC to various tower sites in the

County will help to determine the health of the wireless portion of the Countys backhaul network. Data

will be gathered and evaluated in the following main categories:

Wired Network Backhaul and Physical Construction

MCP will review the Countys T-1 data circuits to gain an understanding of their historical operation and

how well they have performed during emergency situations when they are most in demand. At time,

backhaul can be overwhelmed when expansion has occurred in locations which cause the capacity to

be exceeded during moments of increased activity. MCP will also evaluate the opportunity to leverage

the anticipated ESInet for intra and inter-county connectivity.


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Communications networks that are constructed to supply backhaul service should be configured with

efficiency and effectiveness in mind. Typically these network installations are designed to support the

minimum bandwidth required for the service being attended to. This can result in a combination of

facilities and solutions being utilized in a single solution. It is important to evaluate and review the

available options for the following considerations:

Network Upgrades and Modifications

Through coordination with county personnel, and assessment of neighboring network infrastructure and

any newly implemented or planned upgrades will be included for analysis. The information collected

will be helpful in determining the focus for network modifications. The County can make specific

determinations to ensure that any new network construction is compatible with planned changes in

neighboring counties to ensure no impact on future county interoperability.

Recommendat ions

Upon evaluation of the Countys backhaul infrastructure, a report on the findings will be used to develop

a comprehensive recommendation which would include to what extent the existing infrastructure can be

preserved. Physical site conditions and available space will be further evaluated to determine if

restrictions exist which could pose a problem during transition activities. MCP intends to review the list

of our proposed areas for data collection with the County during project initiation to ensure all

requirements are reviewed prior to task initiation.

County-to-County Interoperabi l i ty Analysis

Interoperability and Mutual Aid Requirements will be evaluated based on feedback from users and how

they relate their needs during the data collection. This information will be analyzed to determine howmutual aid occurs in the County and how it needs to be incorporated in the development of the future

system.

MCP will develop an understanding of neighboring counties systems designs and propose

recommendations for the Countys interoperability functions for mutual aid to include:

Mutual aid operations with non-County agencies

Technical and operational concerns associated with operating in multi-agency scenarios and

how to accommodate them in the design of the new system

State, federal and other agencies who are involved during emergency situations

In addition to how the system facilitates interoperability, MCP will review the procedural aspects related

to federal guidance, NIMS and ICS functions and the DHS Safecom Interoperability Continuum. This

information will relate in part how existing communications plans will be affected by the changes of

technology.

MCP will make recommendations that may include changes to the current methods of interoperability to

accommodate the introduction of new technologies and procedures. MCP understands the sensitivity

many agencies have to changes in their current manner of performance and all recommendations or


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suggestions concerning changes will be introduced with the utmost discretion and respect for existing

processes.

These recommendations and changes would be incorporated in determining the final functional

configuration of the equipment to achieve the maximum degree of interoperability.

Major Deliverables

Meeting minutes from conference calls and in-person meetings

Bi-weekly status reports on project progress

Written recommendations for action on vendor change orders

Site survey forms from conducted site surveys

Written recommendation to accept functional acceptance testing based on direct oversight

of testing by MCP personnel

System acceptance punch-list completed by MCP that verifies system complies with

contractual requirements accompanied by written recommendation to accept system

PROJECT EXPERIENCE

Please refer to the following project experience sheets for project information and experience andreferences.


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CLIENT: Johnston County, North Carolina

SERVICESPROVIDED: VHF Countywide Paging System Consulting

CLIENT CONTACT: Jason Barbour, 911 Director

Department of Emergency 911 Communications

919-989-5611

[email protected]

PROJECTDATES: January 2012 to April 2012

CHALLENGE: In recent years, the population of Johnston County increased from 121,000 residents in 2000 to

more than 165,000 residents in 2010a 26% jump that has tasked the countys single site, wideband paging

system to its limits. As an added concern, the County has been struggling to find a way to close a significant

service gap that will be created when it converts its paging system to narrowband mode to meet FCC mandates.

To help it overcome these obstacles, the County retained Mission Critical Partners, Inc. (MCP) to assist in theassessment, development and implementation of a new multi-site system that can help ensure the safety of

County residents.

SOLUTION: MCP developed a two-tiered strategy to help Johnston County meet its project goals.

The first tier included an in-depth needs assessment to determine the Countys operational, functional and

regulatory needs and requirements. This included a comprehensive review of current equipment and a thorough

analysis of how the FCC Narrowbanding Mandate would impact the systems existing coverage and capabilities.

User surveys and focus group meetings with various users helped guide the development of an effective

transition plan.

The second tier emphasized system design and vendor communications. Based on its understanding of county

standards and needs, MCP developed project specifications that functioned as a conceptual design for the

countys new system. This served as the foundation for a comprehensive RFP that outlined all technical,

functional and performance requirements of user agencies and departments. To complete the process, MCP

worked closely with county officials to objectively evaluate vendor responses to the RFP; maintain open lines of

communication with all vendors during the review process; and negotiate the final contract for the selected

vendor.

KEY RESULT: Johnston County issued an RFP to solicit bids for the replacement of its single site paging

system with a countywide narrowband paging system. MCP worked closely with the County to choose a qualified

vendor that implemented narrowband voice and digital paging systems that have been highly acclaimed by field

users.


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We have been with Mission CriticalPartners from their inception and I can

say they have put together a trulyprofessional and qualified team. MCPworks side by side with us in

accomplishing our goals. They trulyare our partner in this major publicsafety initiative.Randall J Brozenick, Director of Public Safety

CLIENT: Armstrong County, Pennsylvania

SERVICES PROVIDED: Executive Consulting and Master Planning

Interoperable Regional Radio Systems

Emergency Operations Center Oversight

Migration Plan

CLIENT CONTACT: Randall J. Brozenick, Director of Public Safety

724-548-3430; [email protected]

PROJECT DATES: May 2010 to Present

CHALLENGE: Armstrong County, located in southwestern Pennsylvania,

took the initiative to upgrade three significant components of its county-wide

emergency and non-emergency communications system. The upgrade

included:

Working in partnership with adjoining Indiana County to securefederal funding for and provide broadband capabilities throughout

rural communities in both counties

Replacement of an aging public safety VHF radio system with a

P25-compliant digital radio system that meets Federal

Communications Commission (FCC) narrowbanding requirements

Designing and constructing a new county Emergency Operations

Center (EOC) and Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP)

SOLUTION: The County selected Mission Critical Partners, Inc. (MCP) to

serve as Program Manager of this multi-faceted public safety capital improvement project. As its first step,

MCP developed a research-based approach which considered the projects purpose, scope, cost and schedule

in relation to the Countys communication mission. This approach guided the MCP team as it managed the

process of combining the three projects into one comprehensive solution. This solution included:

A three-county public-private partnership that would bring broadband capabilities to rural underserved

areas. Armstrong County leveraged the broadband network by using it for all levels of connectivity for

public safety radio, county telephony and data transport.

A 14-site P25 800 MHz radio system that was developed by leveraging a master switch in adjacent

Westmoreland County for multi-county interoperable communications capability and 95/95 portable

coverage.

An EOC project programmed by MCP in coordination with SCHRADERGROUP architecture, LLC.

As part of its project oversight responsibilities, MCP developed capital and operating budgets for the project. In

addition, MCP managed the scope of various vendors, professional service providers and contractors on behalfof the County, as well as system implementation, commissioning and decommissioning.

KEY RESULT: Armstrong County Department of Public Safety and E911 opened its new 5,000 square foot

EOC and PSAP in March 2013. The upgrade to a multi-county, P25 compliant digital trunked radio system

went live in June 2013.

Documents

Macon County Commissioners 10-08-2013 Press Kit