(Atlantic) Cass County Emergency Management Coordinator Mike Kennon took a measured approach integrating to a new state-of-the-art digital communications platform. The process started in 2020, and Kennon says they officially signed off on the final stage this past week.
Kennon says the system is called the Iowa Statewide Interoperable Communications System. He says this is a 700 megahertz P25 standard digital radio communications network. Kennon says the network can create connectivity for public safety agencies and first responders, as well as providers of public services like power and utilities, public health, and emergency management.
Kennon says the government dictated a narrow-band situation. This new system now allows operational radio conversations between law enforcement, fire, and EMS, in the County, with neighboring counties, and across the state.”
The Cass County 911 Service Board purchased and installed equipment three years ago, which allowed limited access to the ISICS system when RAGBRAI came through the County. In addition, the board purchased a compatible hand-held radio for each fire department in the County. County law enforcement agencies purchased dual-band radios as their radio equipment as needed. Kennon says radio units were installed in the Communications Center, allowing local law enforcement and fire personnel to talk directly with Cass County dispatchers on local talk groups.
Kennon says every Iowa County has had to decide if and how they will utilize the ISICS system. He says many counties committed millions of dollars to enhance their local coverage, but Cass County took a gradual approach to adapting to the new system.
