Consider and take action on Resolution No. 21-045, approving the agreement and purchase of a FirstNet CRD (Compact Rapid Deployable) Unit to be maintained by the Information Technology Department. (IT Department)

FirstNet CRD (Compact Rapid Deployable) unit purchase. The purchase amount is $69,995.00 for the CRD unit. This is a sole source purchase through AT&T FirstNet. For reference purposes, the CRD Unit is manufactured by Rescue 42 for AT&T FirstNet through an exclusive agreement.
 
The CRD is a rapidly deployable unit capable of providing a large area WiFi signal to any capable device. This unit can also broadcast a FirstNet cellular signal with ½ mile to 1-mile coverage dependent on environmental conditions. By utilizing WiFi calling, any smartphone regardless of the carrier would be able to utilize this unit to place calls when cellular service is unavailable. This unit can also be quickly hardwired into existing infrastructure to provide network and phone support during outages to keep operations online. The unit is capable of being completely standalone in the event of large-scale power and communication outages. The CRD unit can be outfitted with additional equipment to increase its mission roles and effectiveness over time. Dependent upon mission tasks while deployed in a standalone mode, this unit can support upwards of 50 active users.
 
This unit would be maintained by Information Technology to serve all city departments in their mission. Either through emergency service outages so dispatch can continue answering calls. Disaster response to provide critical communications in the field. Supplying connectivity at community events where cellular coverage is limited. During extended internet carrier outages to provide connectivity to critical infrastructure.