The Guam Fire Department is seeking about $3.8 million for a next-generation 911 system.
GFD representatives testified at a public hearing today on a bill sent by the governor. It asks for authorization to use funds that were returned to the department, that the administration says were illegally transferred in fiscal years 2014 through 2017. Acting Fire Chief Joey Manibusan says the existing system is now 20 years old and "technologically incapable" of performing up to national standards.
"So if you call 911, you will get through to 911 but all the features that are expected with national standards and FCC standards are not up to par," he said. "So by replacing it with the next generation 911 system, we will bring our system to a better place, and our community with much better quality of life."
GFD says if it gets the money it will begin the procurement process for the design, installation, operation and maintenance of a Next Generation 911 system and Integrated computer-aided dispatch system