i_911tf_2016a_2016-10-11t09:12:18z2 Hearing Summary
Date: 10/11/2016
Final
Presentation on FirstNet in Colorado
TASK FORCE ON 911 OVERSIGHT, OUTAGE REPORTING, AND RELIABILITY
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10:28 AM -- Presentation on FirstNet in Colorado
Mr. Brian Shepherd, Governor's Office of Information Technology (OIT), came to the table to present on the status of FirstNet in Colorado (Attachment A). He noted that across the county, 21 jurisdictions were allowed to move forward with wireless communications for FirstNet, including Adams County. He highlighted the funding available for FirstNet implementation and planning. He discussed FirstNet's governing body and noted that Colorado is one of the few states that includes 911 representation on its governing body. He discussed the current status of FirstNet in Colorado today and highlighted the state plan process. He noted Colorado FirstNet's local outreach and education by visiting all 64 counties in Colorado. In response to committee questions, he discussed the bidding process for FirstNet. He noted the awarded company will get the license to use the FirstNet spectrum for 25 years. The winning company will build the network for public safety, but will be able to lease the spectrum for commercial use. Colorado is also investigating whether to opt out of national plan by requesting information on a Colorado-specific FirstNet network.
In response to committee questions, Mr. Shepard discussed how FirstNet interplays with the need for expanded broadband capabilities in the state. He noted that the capital costs of moving to NextGen 911 are expensive, so the state needs to look at integrating all services, such as FirstNet, through one broadband system. In response to a question, he discussed the differences between the national FirstNet plan and Colorado's investigation to an alternate plan. In response to the committee questions, he noted that $2.5 million in federal funds had been awarded to Colorado, and the state matched some of those funds through the Department of Public Safety. Finally, he noted that OIT is investigating innovative funding strategies and private equity for implementing FirstNet.
161011 AttachA.pdf