In a special meeting held on December 31, 2024, the Grand Forks County Board of Commissioners addressed a critical upgrade to the county's two-way radio system, which is essential for effective communication among county departments. The meeting was prompted by the impending obsolescence of the current analog system, which is expected to cease functioning within the next two years.

During the meeting, County Highway Department representatives presented a proposal to replace the outdated radio system with new equipment. The urgency of the upgrade was underscored by the fact that the county could lose a significant reimbursement from the state of North Dakota if the purchase is not completed by March. This reimbursement could cover nearly half of the estimated $100,000 cost for the new radios.

The proposal includes acquiring 38 new radios, which would serve the core fleet of equipment used for snow plowing and other essential county operations. The plan aims to streamline communication by providing dedicated channels for county use, reducing interference from shared channels currently used with local school districts.

The financial implications of the upgrade were a key focus of the discussion. While the total cost of materials is approximately $99,588, the county's net expenditure after state reimbursement would be around $50,000. The board acknowledged that this expense was not included in the current budget, but they discussed utilizing existing budget lines to accommodate the necessary funding.

The meeting highlighted the importance of maintaining reliable communication systems for public safety and operational efficiency within the county. As the board deliberates on the proposal, the decision will have lasting implications for how county departments coordinate and respond to emergencies and daily operations. The commissioners are expected to make a decision on the radio system upgrade in the coming weeks, emphasizing the need for timely action to secure state funding and ensure uninterrupted communication capabilities.