Belpre approves submitting JAG grant to switch dispatch to MARCS radio system

Chief Stump, through a written letter read into the record, described a four-phase plan to convert the city's dispatch and police radios to the P25 MARCS system: 1) replace the console/dispatch; 2) acquire handheld portables; 3) outfit patrol vehicles with in-car radios; 4) add a second console/dispatch station. He said he is applying for a JAG grant to fund the work and asked council approval to submit the application.

Council approved Ms. Riffle’s motion to submit the grant application by voice vote; the transcript records all members present voting aye. Mayor Abdella said that, if awarded, funds would be used by FY2027. The deadline to submit the grant application is July 21, 2026, and no local match was reported in the meeting transcript.