6.2. ERMUSR 11-13-2008~j
Elk River -~
Municipal Utilities
13069 Orono Parkway • P.O. Box 430
Elk River, MN 55330-0430
November 5, 2008
To: Elk River Municipal Utilities Commission
Jerry Takle
John Dietz
Jerry Gumphrey
From: Troy Adams
Subject: 800MHz Radios
Phone: 763.441.2020
Fax: 763.441.8099
This month, the City of Elk River will be converting from their old analog radio system to a new
800MHz radio system. The new system provides far better range and clarity. The ability to
upgrade to this new system was made in part by grant money available through Sherburne
County. Once the City converts to the new system, communication by radio between the City
and ERMU would not be possible without modifications to the ERMU analog radio system.
The analog radio system is still used by MMUA for emergencies because most municipal
utilities have analog radio systems. So for that reason, ERMU would need to maintain the
analog radio system.
To be able to communicate with the City during emergencies as well as normal operation, there
are two options. First, it may be possible to have Sherburne County patch our call through to the
City. This may require modifications to our equipment. The second option would be for ERMU
to have an 800MHz radio system in addition to the analog radio system.
The second option has promise. There is a possibility that ERMU would be able to receive grant
money from Sherburne County to purchase the 800MHz radio system. This avenue is currently
being researched with the help of the City.