Scott County explores security system upgrade and telecommunications contract renewal

Scott County Commissioners discussed two major proposals by IT Director Andrew Campbell: upgrading the county's panic security system and renewing a telecommunications contract with Frontier Communications.

The first proposal centered on a quote from Link Systems, a company specializing in security and panic systems. The new system would allow every county employee across all departments and buildings to have access to a panic button at their workstation, without the need for additional hardware. “This is a major upgrade,” explained Campbell. “While some of our buildings are secure, this new system would provide 100% coverage for every county employee and enhance response times in case of an emergency.”

The system would send alerts directly to dispatch, providing real-time information, including the exact location of the incident. The quote for the upgrade came to $17,910, with an additional $3,000 annual maintenance fee, which the county has already budgeted for. Officials agreed it was a smart investment, especially in today's uncertain times. “For $17,000 we could potentially save a life,” remarked Commissioner Greg Prince. The topic will be discussed after final figures for remaining ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds are confirmed.

The second topic addressed the county's telecommunications service. The board reviewed the proposal to renew and upgrade their current service with Frontier Communications. The current system operates on older copper PRI lines, and the new proposal would switch to SIP, which operates through internet connectivity. This change would enhance call quality and offer easier management of phone lines across all county buildings.

The county is paying about $1,200 to $1,300 a month for the current system, but the new service will cost $854 per month, saving roughly $300 to $400 monthly. Campbell said, “if for any reason the new system doesn't work, we can fall back on our old PRI system.”

The board unanimously approved a 36-month term, providing a more modern and cost-effective telecommunications solution for the county.