Mitch Landrieu: “I fully agree with my distinguished colleague that the completion of the new communications system for the Jefferson…”

“I fully agree with my distinguished colleague that the completion of the new communications system for the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office is a high priority project that deserves funding under the FY 1999 COPS Technology Grant Program. The Sheriff's Department has committed to at least a 50-50 cost share with the federal government for this initiative which can serve as a national model. Further, the new communications system will help meet a clear public safety need by supporting interoperability and thus enhancing communication between the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Department and a number of other local and national law enforcement and public safety agencies throughout the region. This interoperability will enhance the Sheriff's Department's effectiveness in combating crime and responding to area-wide public safety emergencies. I would also like to add that funding is needed in order for the Sheriff's Office to meet FCC requirements and the procurement implementation schedule for the new system.”