HOLLAND, MI (WHTC-AM/FM, Oct. 20, 2022) – Ottawa County Central Dispatch Authority announces the refinancing of $6.142 million of debt saving taxpayers over $700,000.
In December 2015, OCCDA entered into an agreement with Motorola Solutions for construction of a new 800MHz radio system for use by central dispatch, police, fire and EMS first responders countywide. The 11 tower-site simulcast system included new dispatch consoles and nearly 2,000 new radios for first responders in the field and became fully operational in 2019. The radio system is integrated with the Michigan Public Safety Communications System (MPSCS) and provides improved coverage, interoperability and functionality. The cost of the system was $14.2 million dollars with $11.5 million dollars financed with Motorola Solutions through year 2030.
In August 2022, the OCCDA Policy Board approved refinancing of the debt through Huntington Bank. OCCDA used $3.142 million in fund balance and financed the remaining $3 million in debt. As a result of the refinancing, the radio system debt will be paid off in 2025 instead of 2030 and will save taxpayers over $700,000 in interest charges.
Ottawa County Central Dispatch Authority is primarily funded through a countywide millage that will beup for renewal in 2028.
