New Radio Frequencies

Communication has been a major problem in mutual aid situations, and the MMUA Communications/Member Services Committee and Board of Directors have done something about it.

The nature of the communications difficulties had to do with radio communications, as many different utilities’ radios couldn’t communicate with each other.

Following a membership survey to try to get a better idea what our members’ communication (mainly radio) capabilities were, the information was reviewed and recommendations gathered from industry representatives.

MMUA will soon be sending a memo to its members, asking them to consider a number of recommendations when upgrading their communications, to ensure they can work with other municipals in a mutual aid situation.

MMUA has purchased a Motorola GR1225 repeater. RF output power from the transceiver is 45 watts at UHF and 50 watts at VHF. The repeater provides full duplex capability with features such as drop-out-delay (hang-time), CWID, courtesy "over" beep, "on battery" alert tone and 16-channel operation.

MMUA has also obtained a statewide VHF frequency license. We actually have three VHF channels—that way, if one isn’t clear in a particular area we have two others to go to. These frequencies-153.41000, 159.75000 and 159.99000-allow for a statewide area of operation. MMUA will be sending a letter to its members, from Motorola, with more details and programming notes.

Up to 200 radios statewide can be supported from any of these frequencies.

While waiting for the VHF frequencies, MMUA applied for a UHF repeater frequency license, with a 30-mile operating radius. We also have three temporary UHF frequencies that can support 40 radios statewide.

MMUA also sought to establish an emergency rental agreement with Motorola for hand-held radios. While we have no actual written agreement, MMUA has worked with members and Motorola several times to supply hand-held radios in mutual aid situations.

MMUA is also negotiating an agreement with Motorola for communications start-up assistance in mutual aid situations. This agreement may involve members of the Northland Motorola Service Stations, which are located throughout the state.

These actions follow recommendations made by the Communications/Member Services Committee to the MMUA Board.

This mutual aid communications service is available to any member. For more information, call Steve Downer at 763-551-1230.