05/20/2014
AI 44540
Presentation, discussion and authorization to submit Schedule C- 800 MHz Reconfiguration Cost Estimate to Sprint/Nextel to request reconfiguration funding required to cover costs to reconfigure the county’s radio system.

Presentation, discussion and authorization to allow Oscar Montoya, as the current licensee, to sign any and all document related to the 800 MHz transition process as required by the FCC.

09/24/2013- AI-40871
Presentation, discussion and authorization to submit the Motorola Reconfiguration Planning Phase Agreement as part of the 800MHz Band Reconfiguration and Submit the Sprint/Nextel Planning Cost Agreement.

10/02/2013-AI-40931
Authorization to submit the Motorola 800 MHz Transition Administrator Waiver of Privilege and Confidentiality Agreement.

04/15/2014 –AI44010
Authorization to enter into contract with Law Firm of Best, Best & Krieger LLP to assist the County as legal counsel with the reconfiguration of the radio system.

The FCC mandated the reconfiguration of the 800 MHz band throughout the United States to correct interference caused by commercial wireless cellular systems (such as Sprint/Nextel) and public safety licensees operating in the same band. The costs for the rebanding will be paid in full by Sprint/Nextel. (NO fiscal impact to the County of Hidalgo)

As a member of the Rio Grande Regional Group, the Region had initially considered one planning contract for all of the sites and subscribers, but in mid September, it was decided that each licensee in the Region would have to file a separate agreement. As an 800 MHz licensee, we are required to comply with the deadline to submit all the required documentation to the FCC and Transition Administrator by September 30, 2013.

The costs listed under Schedule C of the Frequency Reconfiguration Agreement (FRA) are based on the Motorola Proposal for reconfiguration services. The estimated costs are not to exceed the amount of $164,743.80. The costs for Hidalgo County are based on work per unit item and employee hourly rate for compensation of reconfiguration of the county’s system. Within 15-30 days of signing the FRA, Nextel agrees to compensate the county $82, 371.90, half of the total agreed amount. Reconciliation documentation will be submitted to Nextel for actual time worked. Upon receipt by Nextel/Sprint of the documentation for all actual costs, the parties will agree upon the amount of any additional payment due or any refunds due to Sprint.