The St. Croix County Public Protection meeting on May 1, 2025, focused on critical upgrades to the county's communication systems, particularly in response to increasing demands from law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services (EMS).

A key discussion point was the need to transition to an 800 megahertz communication system. Officials highlighted that the current system struggles with interference due to added frequencies and infrastructure, which hampers effective communication. The proposed 800 megahertz system would require less filtering, allowing for better signal penetration in buildings and improved overall communication capabilities.

The county's population is projected to grow from approximately 95,600 to around 120,000 by 2040, which is expected to increase call volume and the complexity of emergency responses. Since 2017, there has been a notable rise in both the number and intensity of calls, necessitating enhanced communication tools for public safety personnel.

The estimated cost for refreshing the current system is $4.75 million, with an additional $6.5 million proposed for further enhancements, including encrypted channels. Collaboration with the highway department was also mentioned, as they have specific communication needs in areas of the county that currently lack adequate coverage.

Overall, the meeting underscored the urgency of upgrading communication infrastructure to meet the growing demands of St. Croix County's public safety services.