Resolution No. 85742
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ME
t
RESOLUTION NO. 8574
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
VERNON APPROVING AND AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A
LOS ANGELES REGIONAL TACTICAL COMMUNICATION SYSTEM
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN PARTICIPATING
LOCAL, STATE, FEDERAL, AND MILITARY AGENCIES FOR
RADIO COMMUNICATIONS
- WHEREAS, the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department
("Sheriff's Department") manages a radio patching system commonly
referred to as the Los Angeles Regional Tactical Communication System
("LARTCS") that was first implemented in 2001 between the Sheriff's
Department and the California Highway Patrol; and
WHEREAS, the LARTCS has grown to include more law enforcement
and public safety agencies within the Los Angeles County area; and
WHEREAS, the Sheriff's Department is allowing participating
agencies to utilize their existing communications equipment resources
to connect their frequencies together with other participating agencies
in order to provide radio interoperability throughout the County; and
WHEREAS, various participating local, state, federal and
military agencies desire to enter into a Los Angeles Regional Tactical
Communication System Memorandum of Understanding ("MOU") establishing
policy and procedures for the activation, use and deactivation of the
LARTCS; and
WHEREAS, on October 20, 2004, the Finance Committee
considered the recommendation of Bruce V. Malkenhorst, Director of
Finance, dated October 14, 2004, that an MOU be approved and executed.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF VERNON AS FOLLOWS:
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SECTION 1: The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby
finds and determines that the recitals contained hereinabove are true
and correct.
SECTION 2: The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby
approves the MOU with participating local, state, federal, and
military agencies, a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit A and
incorporated by reference.
- SECTION 3: The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby
authorizes the City Administrator to execute said MOU for,
and on behalf of, the City of Vernon.
SECTION 4: The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby
directs the City Clerk, or his designee, to send one fully executed
MOU to:
Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department
Communications and Fleet Management Bureau
1277 N. Eastern Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90063
SECTION 5: The City Clerk of the City of Vernon shall
certify to the passage of this resolution, and thereupon and
thereafter the same shall be in full force and effect.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 20th day of October, 2004.
ATTEST:
BRUCE V. MALKENHORST, City Clerk
LEONIS C. MAL URG, Ma or
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STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
) ss
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES )
I, BRUCE V. MALKENHORST, City Clerk of the City of Vernon, do
hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution, being Resolution No.
8574, was duly adopted by the City Council of the City of Vernon at a
regular meeting of the City Council duly held on Wednesday, October 20,
2004, and thereafter was duly signed by the Mayor of the City of
Vernon.
(SEAL)
BRUCE V. MALKENHORST, City Clerk
- 3 -
EXHIBIT
LOS ANGELES REGIONAL
TACTICAL COMMUNICATION SYSTEM
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN
PARTICIPATING LOCAL, STATE, FEDERAL, AND MILITARY
AGENCIES, FOR RADIO COMMUNICATIONS
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between participating Local,
State, Federal, and Military agencies, and the Los Angeles Regional Tactical Communications
System Executive Committee, establishes policy and procedures for the activation, use, and
deactivation of an interoperability communication system. This system will be known as the
Regional Tactical Communications System (LARTCS).
PURPOSE
The purpose of the LARTCS is to..allow direct voice communication between participating
agencies in dealing with both`shflrt term (felony pursuits, fires, haze aa, etc.) and long term
incidents (major disaster large scale fires and floods, civil disturban At or
incidents, etc.).
The LARMS cross- different radio channels over various i pency bands,
throughout the Lod les region: This will enhance the safety of part* dating agencies
through real time, eld unit -to -unit, direct voice communication interoper;Ality.
SCOPE_..
A "participatmency" shall be defined as any Iocal, state, federal, or militaryagency that has
read, agreed, signed, and wilt abide by this MOLT.
POLICY
A Any supernsof a participating agency may request the activation`: of the LARTCS.
�� .ram
These personnesha(1 be held accountable for radio discipline by46eir respective
agencies.
B. Each communications cen * , the appfpplk C ss channel for their agency
that will be linked to the LAR7C' or encies participating in specific incidents, each
affected communications center shall monitor the LARMS to ensure requested resources
are provided, as well as compliance with this agreement and other policies.
C. During an incident, any agency communication center, incident commander, or
supervisor may deactivate use of the LARTCS, based on operational needs. Notice to
other agencies on the LARTCS will be given when use"is deactivated.
D. Deactivation of the LARTCS shall be a joint decision by the involved agencies.
Los Angeles Regional Tactical Communications System Memorandum of Understanding
6/23/2004
E. All personnel broadcasting on the LARTCS will use plain spoken English. The use of
radio codes, acronyms, and abbreviations, are to be avoided as they have different
meanings for different agencies. Due to agency terminology differences in use of plain
text of words such as "Help", "Assistance", "Repeat", and `Back-up", the use of these
words shall be followed with a brief description of why the above is needed. i.e. officer
requesting assistance with traffic control, etc.). The use of the word "Help" should be
avoided unless it is being used in the universal context in a life -threatening incident.
F. Due to the fact the various radio frequencies used in the system may be monitored by the
general public, only non -classified information may be passed over the LARTCS. Any
confidential or classified communications shall be made through other secure means.
G. The LARTCS maybe activatedspFpsedfor=emergency joint agency incidents. However,
it may also be used for ll ` ' "#
Y p court agency tactical opera4'onss,large.public events, joint
training exercises, and planned system testing. The type and pnonty of incidents are as
follows: _
Priority 1: Disaster-;nd extreme emergency operations.
Priority 2: Emency or urgent operations involving imminent danger to t ety or life
andoperty.
Priority 3: Special event control activities, generally of a pre -planned nature, and generally
invoving joint participation of two or more agencies.
Priority 3a: Drftests, and exercises.
These priorities conflolt1go the State Office of Emergency Services
aid plan. Priority 4, lev%an,
munications (single agency secondary
covered by this MOU, e notto be used on the LARTCS.
H. A request to participate m theLARX is not a request to iansfer
responsibility of an incident.
mutual
re not
1. The LARTCS could be used for Homeland -Security or other related incidents. It shall be
the policy of the LARTCS for the participants not to release the radio frequencies,
CTCSS/CDCSS codes, channel plan, and other information related to the system. No
system information shall be released to the media or other entities, public or private.
Exception: anyone involved with the direct maintenance or repair of the participating
agency's radio equipment. This information shall be provided to service technicians on
a "need to know" basis only. Failure to safeguard the LARTCS information may be cause
for suspension or cancellation of this MOU with the offending agency.
PROCEDURES
As previously stated in this document, the LARTCS is intended for use when immediate
Los Angeles Regional Tactical Communications System Memorandum of Understanding
6/23/2004
information will enhance the safety or effectiveness of personnel dealing with an incident. It is
not to be used to deliver mundane information. The LARTCS may be requested, if needed, to
allow voice communications between each agency's command personnel dealing with the
incident. "Specific procedures will be defined in the LARTCS Operations Manual.
MAINTENANCE
Each participating agency is responsible for te main ce of the involved hardware and
software for their agency. All parti ' ci espoiimiifor their own
connection maintenance costs, e�en
s Angeles Co ty�She ' s Communications
Bureau shall maintain the inficture of the L4R7CS.
It is understood tha ro�reprogramming and maintenance will be requuiW �on an ongoing basis,
and system configuration changes will occur as the system grows. Participating agencies agree
to promptly reprogram their radio equipment as necessary, in order to maintain continuity of the
system OW
f .
For uniformity in radio displays, %adi -frequencies h b be labeled
as specified in the�,LARTCS Operations Manaal.'
CONTROL
A. There is an !E�tive Committee representing all participating e e
B. The Commas er a Los Angeles County Sheriffs Dep Communications and
Fleet Management Bud' will assume the duties of S Coordinator for the
LARTCS. The System o co ' copies of original
Memorandums of Understanding o xlusystem }the associated communications
agreements for the LARTCS. The System Coordinator can be reached at Communications
and Fleet Management Bureau, 1277 North Eastern Avenue, Los Angeles 90063. (323)
267-2501.
C. The System Coordinator will forward any complaints, concerns, or proposed changes to
the Executive Committee, for review and appropriate action.
Los Angeles Regional Tactical Communications System Memorandum of Understanding
6/23/2004
AGREEMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AGENCY
Any Local, State, Federal, or Military agency may participate in the LARTCS by signature of
agreement by the department head or their designee, on this MOU. The System Coordinator will
notify all other participating agencies of any new member agencies.
REVISIONS
This MOU may be revised or amended at any time by mutual agreement of participating
agencies. Any participating agency may terminate their participation by giving written notice to
the System Coordinator. The System Coordinator will notify all other participating agencies of
the withdrawal.
The city of Vernts agrees to this Memorandum
<, AGENCY
Of Understanding, anaIll coniorm to it's policies and procedures.
PRINT
SIGNATURE
HEAD NAME
City. Administrator,-,..
tobe 21, 2004
APPROVED AS
M-
DESIGNEESIGNA � Eric T. F , City Attorney
PRINT DESIGNEE NAME `
4305 Santa Fe Avenue, Vernon, CA 90058 (323) 583-8811
AGENCY ADDRESS TELEPHONE
Dispatch/Watch Commander (323) 587-5171 None
AGENCY 24 hour contact (duty agent/response/dispatch) TELEPHONE EMAIL ADDRESS
Dispatch/Watch Commander (323) 587-5171 None
AGENCY 24 hour technical contact TELEPHONE EMAIL ADDRESS
Los Angeles Regional Tactical Communications System Memorandum of Understanding
6/23/2004
Los Angeles Regional
Tactical Communication System
OPERATING POLICY
1.
Authorization procedure for use of the Los Angeles Regional Tactical Communications
System (LARTCS). LARTCS channels shall not be used without the prior approval of the
participating agencies and the SCC Watch Commander.
A. Participating agency supervisor, or watch commander, shall approve a request to use the
LARTCS. Authorization to use the fARTC,97Mfq be obtained by the following method:
1) Contact the gen.with which you wish to comminc,,via landline. Joint
approvalbetween participating incident commanders =and ,coordination through
the Sheriffs Communication Center (SCC) Watch Commanderis required.
lip.
2) The'SCC Watch'Commander will assign LARTCS channels based upon the type
okoeration, availability, other concurrent operations; areas) of required
MK
cRoVerage, and priority. The SCC Watch Commander shall call bathe requesting
h_gencies for verification.
2. Use of the LARTCS.
A. Only co unications that are essential to official inter -agency ac
Examp appropriate traffic include.
o
1) agency command/tactical coordination
2) 1) espouse coordination
3) Preplanned inteT3 gency operations depending upon-,
a. Channel Availability
b. Nature of Incidem� F-
c. Scope of Operation
d. Number of Departments involved
4) All communications traffic shall be in PLAIN LANGUAGE. Use of code,
acronyms and abbreviations should be avoided to minimize confusion.
5) Agency name shall precede call sign.
B. Pursuits and incidents outside your local radio coverage area
Los Angeles Regional Tactical Communications System
Operations Manual
6/23/2004
vt.0
C. Requests for inter -agency emergency assistance when telephone lines are unavailable or
their use is impractical.
3. Use of LARTC channels and frequencies.
A. The following are fundamental characteristics of the LARTC system.
1) While the Los Angeles County mutual aid radio system has been built out to
provide extensive coverage for the county, there are geographical restrictions to
the current LARTCS. The LARTCS provides coverage for the Los Angeles
Basin as well as coastal coverage for the United States Coast Guard. Plans are
being developed to provide countywide ;coverage for the LARTC system over an
extensive network
2) The LART o 'ratesona Voice Operated Transmrt�VOX) connection. True
speech�must, be present in order to activate the connected transmitters. Immediate
speech at"the_beginning of a radio transmission or pauses in speech can result in
4
incomplete radio transmissions. To prevent these occurrences follow the
recoipmended procedures:
a. At the beginning of each transmission, state twice the of the
agency with whom you desire to communicate followedMvur agency
identifier. y-
b. Avoid delays and/or pauses in your speech.
B. Frequency description and assignment are fisted in Appendix A
4. Use of SC(;l cess Channel
A The SC s channel maybe utilized to contact the Sheriffs Co 'cations Center
to
in times of em envy,= or if telephone lines are disrupted or their p unpractical.
,,i
B: All communications on the SCC access channel shall be in the repeat mode and be limited
to essential voice tAc--only, as this is the main UHF gateway into the RTC System.
Mobile -to -mobile commuincations_:are not normally, p0jik d, as this channel is a
coordination frequency between SCC -and participating agencies. SCC Access provides
countywide coverage for certain'�,ASD elements.
S. Using mobiletportable radios on the LARTC System.
A. When involved in an emergency field situation where access to a telephone is
impractical, SCC Watch Commander approval may be obtained through the SCC Access
Channel
B. In all other cases, approval shall be obtained through the participating agency's dispatch
center.
2
Los Angeles Regional Tactical Communications System
Operations Manual
6/23/2004
vt.o
C. Reminder for agencies having access to the SCC channels: To provide positive agency
identification on the system, it is recommended to use radios that are equipped with GE -
STAR or MDC 1200 encoders. This is not mandatory, but recommended.
6. System tests.
A. SCC will conduct periodic scheduled and unscheduled tests of the LARTCS to ensure its
readiness. All participating agencies shall cooperate with the testing procedure.
B. In the event of a major system failure of the main transmitters, receivers or microwave
lines, radio contact between the LARTCS �'p ' 'sting agencies may be accomplished in
the following manner and in
the sho
.. s_ 4
7. SCC will contact panc�ipkhng agencies..
A SCC will conta& encies via a 24-hour agency contact telephone number.
.;�t�
8. Participatingencies contacting the LARTC System,
A. Partici g agencies not having access to the SCC Access Channel sh uldtcontact the
SCCch Commander at (323) 267 ,2504
B. The picipating agency may contact the SCC on the SCC Access Channel in the repeat
mode.
9. Access by ' , tary, California Army National Guard
A. Upon. 'on of the California Arm National Guard CA ARNG ;gin Y (.. , � � pport of a
Major InF access to the LARTCS is accomplished by the fop,onng procedures
outlined beti
A-
1. CA ARNG unitsNwill use organic radio equipment currently in inventories (AN-
VRC/12 series or-SINCGARS radios). For units-egwpped with SINCGARS radios,
operation on the LARTCS -W-be Sin "Channel; Non -secure.
2. During operations in support of a Major Incident, all military Command Post (CPs)
will monitor the LARTCS FM Radio Frequencies (36.20).
B. Any CA ARNG unit may also access the LARTCS frequencies to establish direct
communications with all agencies involved in the LARTCS activation.
C. All communications conducted on the LARTCS will be in the CLEAR. Radio codes,
acronyms, and abbreviations are to be avoided, as they may cause confusion between
agencies. Agency name shall precede call sign
3
Los Angeles Regional Tactical Communications System
Operations Manual
6/23/2004
vt.o
I
10. Wide Area Incidents
A. As soon as the SCC Watch Commander becomes aware that a Wide Area Emergency has
occurred, or when so directed, he will immediately insure that the LARTC System is
activated in the default configuration. This is to facilitate instant interoperability between
all responding agencies. SCC will transmit a Secoded broadcast on the SCC Access
channel to notify agencies of the LARTC System activation.
11. Active Incident utilizing the LARTCS
A. In order to prevent confusion and/or missed radio communications, agencies monitoring
the LARTCS, who are not actively involved in an ongoing incident, must not respond to
any calls for assistance. Utilization of the LARTCS is only approved as stated in Section
1 of this document.
12. To Report Problems.
A Any questions or problems with the LARTC System should be directed to the SCC Watch
Commander at (323) 267-2504 ,
..
Respectfully su �tted
Robert Sedr , hainnan *:John:Penido, �ce,Chairma
Los Angeles Regional Tactical Communications Executive Committee
« L
Ilk.
4
Los Angeles Regional Tactical Communications System
Operations Manual
6/23/2004
vt.0
LARTCS
Appendix A-v.1
Frequency Description
The following frequencies can be connected to the LARTC system. Additional frequencies may
be added in the future. Notification of newly added frequencies will be disseminated to all
Participating local, county, state, federal and military agencies:
1. VHF Low Band
ll.
2.
California National Guard.3k 9--mm
CLEM2 45.860 Mhz TX - 39 60'1V '-RX.
{ •tea'
F; gh band 148-172 Mhz µ
,ALE - 155.475 Mhz CSQ. `k
NAT FMARc Repeater 150.79 Mhz PL 156.7>TV 15t475 Mhz Rx CSQ.
Secret Service Dispatch
FBI Dispatch
U.S.., oast Guard - Coast Guard designated channel
-11. UHF Federal agencies 406-420 Mhz
i. Mt. 'V' - 415.8000 (103.5) TX - 406.8000 (103.5)
450-512 Mhz
i. SCC Access is_486.5625 (186.2) TX - 483.5625 (CS)
M-AID 1486.5875 (186.2) TX - 483.5875,(CS) RX
M AID.;2 4870875 (186.2) TX - 484.0875 (CS)
-AID 3 486.7875 (186.2) TX - 483.7875 (CS) r-
v. 11=AID 4 487.1375 (186.2) TX - 484.1375 (CS)._
viAi-AID 5 487.0625 (186.2) TX - 483.0625 (CS) RX
5. UHF 800Mlizy
7
i. rTAC823.0121 (A"
=4i TX - 868.0125'(156.7)
C. Use of these channels and frequencies can only be granted to agencies that have agreed
to, and have submitted, a signed copy of the LARTCS Memorandum of Understanding
(MOM. Failure to comply with the operating guidelines set forth in the MOU may be
grounds for termination of the MOU.
5
Los Angeles Regional Tactical Communications System
Operations Manual
6/23/2004
vi.o
FIELD INSTRUCTIONS:
A wallet size card is available for field resources .to reinforce access procedures into the RTC
system. Indicated below is a copy of the field card.
Los Angeles Regional Tactical Communications System
Emer eny.Event
When direct commu i i `s wot r participating
agencies is not av�il le or after theifed agency has
been contacted: t
1. Contact S Waich C mmancler at (323) 267-2504
or via SCC access channel
2. Advise SCC" hom you wish to com unicate with
3. Advise parti ing agency�es) thate LARTC System
is active and t e`assigned channel/frequency
4. Notify.SCC and participating agency when activity is
System
1. Contact SC atch Command•%(323) 267-2504
with dates ?id times of event '.
2. Advise SCi wito who rou s o mmunicate
3. Advise pa icipating agency(es)';that he LARTC system
is active.a assigned channeVfr'eq cy
4. Notify S d participatinggen en activity is
completed'
6
Los Angeles Regional Tactical Communications System
Operations Manual
6/23/2004
vt.o
SUPPORTING
DOCUMENTS
LOS ANGELES REGIONAL
TACTICAL COMMUNICATION SYSTEM
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN
PARTICIPATING LOCAL, STATE, FEDERAL, AND MILITARY
AGENCIES, FOR RADIO COMMUNICATIONS
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between participating Local,
State, Federal, and Military agencies, and the Los Angeles Regional Tactical Communications
System Executive Committee, establishes policy and procedures for the activation, use, and
deactivation of an interoperability communication system. This system will be known as the
Regional Tactical Communications System (LARTCS).
PURPOSE
The purpose of the LARTCS is to allow direct voice communication between participating
agencies in dealing with both short term (felony pursuits, fires, hazmat, etc.) and long term
incidents (major disaster, large scale fires and floods, civil disturbances, terrorist incidents, etc.).
The LARTCS cross -connects different radio channels over various radio frequency bands,
throughout the Log Angeles region. This will enhance the safety of participating agencies
through real time, Meld unit -to -unit, direct voice communication interoperability.
SCOPE
A "participating agency" shall be defined as any local, state, federal, or military agency that has
read, agreed, signed, and will abide by this MOU.
POLICY
A. Any supervisor of a participating agency may request the activation of the LARTCS.
These personnel shall be held accountable for radio discipline by their respective
agencies.
B. Each communications center will assign the appropriate access channel for their agency
that will be linked to the LARIVS. For agencies participating in specific incidents, each
affected communications center shall monitor the LARMS to ensure requested resources
are provided, as well as compliance with this agreement and other policies.
C. During an incident, any agency communication center, incident commander, or
supervisor may deactivate use of the LARTCS, based on operational needs. Notice to
other agencies on the LARTCS will be given when use'is deactivated.
D. Deactivation of the LARTCS shall be a joint decision by the involved agencies.
Los Angeles Regional Tactical Communications System Memorandum of Understanding
6/23/2004
E. All personnel broadcasting on the LARTCS will use plain spoken English. The use of
radio codes, acronyms, and abbreviations, are to be avoided as they have different
meanings for different agencies. Due to agency terminology differences in use of plain
text of words such as "Help", "Assistance", "Repeat", and "Back-up", the use of these
words shall be followed with a brief description of why the above is needed. (ice officer
requesting assistance with traffic control, etc.). The use of the word "Help" should be
avoided unless it is being used in the universal context in a life -threatening incident.
F. Due to the fact the various radio frequencies used in the system may be monitored by the
general public, only non -classified information may be passed over the LARTCS. Any
confidential or classified communications shall be made through other secure means.
G. The LARTCS maybe activated, or used for emergency joint agency incidents. However,
it may also be used for planned joint agency tactical operations. large public events, joint
training exercises, and planned system testing. The type and priority of incidents are as
follows:
Priority 1: Disaster and extreme emergency operations.
Priority 2: Emergency or urgent operations involving imminent danger to the safety or life
and property.
Priority 3: Special event control activities, generally of a pre -planned nature, and generally
involving joint participation of two or more agencies.
Priority 3a: Drill$, tests, and exercises.
These priorities conform to the State Office of Emergency Services (OES) CLEMARS mutual
aid plan. Priority 4 levelcommunications (single agency secondary communications) are not
covered by this MOU, and ,are not to be used on the LARTCS.
H. A request to participate in the LARTCS is not a request to transfer
responsibility of an incident.
I. The LARTCS could be used for Homeland Security or other related incidents. It shall be
the policy of the LARTCS for the participants not to release the radio frequencies,
CTCSS/CDCSS codes, channel plan, and other information related to the system. No
system information shall be released to the media or other entities, public or private.
Exception: anyone involved with the direct maintenance or repair of the participating
agency's radio equipment. This information shall be provided to service technicians on
a "need to know" basis only. Failure to safeguard the LARTCS information may be cause
for suspension or cancellation of this MOU with the offending agency.
PROCEDURES
As previously stated in this document, the LARTCS is intended for use when immediate
Los Angeles Regional Tactical Communications System Memorandum of Understanding
6/23/2004
information will enhance the safety or effectiveness of personnel dealing with an incident. It is
not to be used to deliver mundane information. The LARTCS may be requested, if needed, to
allow voice communications between each agency's command personnel dealing with the
incident. Specific procedures will be defined in the LARTCS Operations Manual.
MAINTENANCE
Each participating agency is responsible for the maintenance of the involved hardware and
software for their agency. All participatingagencies shall be responsible for their own
connection maintenance costs, if any. The Los Angeles County SheriWs Communications
Bureau shall maintain the infrastructure of the LARTCS.
It is understood that radio reprogramming and maintenance will be required on an ongoing basis,
and system configuration changes will occur as the system grows. Participating agencies agree
to promptly reprogram their radio equipment as necessary, in order to maintain continuity of the
system.
For uniformity of identification in radio displays, radio frequencies in each band will be labeled
as specified in the LARTCS Operations Manual.
CONTROL
A. There is an Executive Committee representing all participating agencies.
B. The Commander trfthe Los Angeles County Sherifrs Department, Communications and
Fleet Management Bureau, will assume the duties of System Coordinator for the
LARTCS. The System Coordinator will coordinate and maintain copies of original
Memorandums of Understanding for this system and'the associated communications
agreements for the LARTCS. The System Coordinator can be reached at Communications
and Fleet Management Bureau, 1277 North Eastern Avenue, Los Angeles 90063. (323)
267-2501.
C. The System Coordinator will forward any complaints, concerns, or proposed changes to
the Executive Committee, for review and appropriate action.
Los Angeles Regional Tactical Communications System Memorandum of Understanding
6/23/2004
AGREEMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AGENCY
Any Local, State, Federal, or Military agency may participate in the LARTCS by signature of
agreement by the department head or their designee, on this MOU. The System Coordinator will
notify all other participating agencies of any new member agencies.
This MOU may be revised or amended at any time by mutual agreement of participating
agencies. Any participating agency may terminate their participation by giving written notice to
the System Coordinator. The System Coordinator will notify all other participating agencies of
the withdrawal.
The City of Vernon " agrees to this Memorandum
AGENCY
Of Understanding, and will conform to it's policies and procedures.
04 �_, A --__is rat--- „_y_,
,D SIGNATURE TITLE
RrnrP v Malkenhorst
PRINT DEPARTMENT HEAD NAME
4305 Satita Fe A
AGENCY ADDRESS
DATE
er 21, 2004
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
, City Attorney
7L.J 1 JO.J-
TELEPHONE
Dispatch/Watch Commander (3 3) 5_ 87-55171 NnnA
AGENCY 24 hour contact (duty agent/response/dispatch) TELEPHONE EMAIL ADDRESS
Dispatch/Watch Commander (323) 587-5171 None
AGENCY 24 hour technical contact TELEPHONE EMAIL ADDRESS
Los Angeles Regional Tactical Communications System Memorandum of Understanding
6/23/2004
Los Angeles Regional
Tactical Communication System
OPERATING POLICY
1. Authorization procedure for use of the Los Angeles Regional Tactical Communications
System (LARTCS). LARTCS channels shall not be used without the prior approval of the
participating agencies and the SCC Watch Commander.
A. Participating agency supervisor, or watch commander, shall approve a request to use the
LARTCS. Authorization to use the LARTCS shall be obtained by the following method:
1) Contact the agency with which you wish to communicate via landline. Joint
approval between participating incident commanders and coordination through
the Sheriff's Communication Center (SCC) Watch Commander is required.
2) The SCC Watch Commander will assign LARTCS channels based upon the type
of operation, availability, other concurrent operations, area(s) of required
coverage, and priority. The SCC Watch Commander shall call back the requesting
agencies for verification.
2. Use of the LARTCS.
A. Only communications that are essential to official inter -agency activities are permissible.
Examples of appropriate traffic include.
1) Inter -agency command/tactical coordination
2) Disaster response coordination
3) Preplanned inter -agency operations depending upon:
a. Channel Availability
b. Nature of incident
c. Scope of Operation
d. Number of Departments involved
4) All communications traffic shall be in PLAIN LANGUAGE. Use of code,
acronyms and abbreviations should be avoided to minimize confusion.
5) Agency name shall precede call sign.
B. Pursuits and incidents outside your local radio coverage area
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C. Requests for inter -agency emergency assistance when telephone lines are unavailable or
their use is impractical.
3. Use of LARTC channels and frequencies.
A. The following are fundamental characteristics of the LARTC system.
1) While the Los Angeles County mutual aid radio system has been built out to
provide extensive coverage for the county, there are geographical restrictions to
the current LARTCS. The LARTCS provides coverage for the Los Angeles
Basin as well as coastal coverage for the United States Coast Guard. Plans are
being developed to provide countywide coverage for the LARTC system over an
extensive network.
2) The LARTCS operates on a Voice Operated Transmit (VOX) connection. True
speech must be present in order to activate the connected transmitters. Immediate
speech at`the beginning of a radio transmission or pauses in speech can result in
incomplete radio transmissions. To prevent these occurrences follow the
recommended procedures:
a. At the beginning of each transmission, state twice the call sign of the
agency with whom you desire to communicate followed by your agency
identifier.
b. Avoid delays and/or pauses in your speech.
B. Frequency description and assignment are fisted in Appendix A
4. Use of SCC Access Channel.
A. The SCC Access channel may be utilized to contact the Sheriffis Communications Center
in times of emergency, or if telephone lines are disrupted or their use is impractical.
B. All communications on the SCC access channel shall be in the repeat mode and be limited
to essential voice traffic only, as this is the main UBF gate' - y into the RTC System.
Mobile -to -mobile communications are not normally permitted, as this channel is a
coordination frequency between SCC and participating agencies. SCC Access provides
countywide coverage for certain LASI3 elements.
5. Using mobile/portable radios on the LARTC System.
A. When involved in an emergency field situation where access to a telephone is
impractical, SCC Watch Commander approval may be obtained through the SCC Access
Channel.
B. In all other cases, approval shall be obtained through the participating agency's dispatch
center.
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C. Reminder for agencies having access to the SCC channels: To provide positive agency
identification on the system, it is recommended to use radios that are equipped with GE -
STAR or MDC 1200 encoders. This is not mandatory, but recommended.
6. System tests.
A. SCC will conduct periodic scheduled and unscheduled tests of the LARTCS to ensure its
readiness. All participating agencies shall cooperate with the testing procedure.
B. In the event of a major system failure of the main transmitters, receivers or microwave
lines, radio contact between the LARTCS participating agencies may be accomplished in
the following manner and in the order shown:
7. SCC will contact participating agencies.
A. SCC will contact agencies via a 24-hour agency contact telephone number.
8. Participating agencies contacting the LARTC System.
A. Participating agencies not having access to the SCC Access Channel shouldcontact the
SCC Watch Commander at (323) 267-2504.
B. The participating agency may contact the SCC on the SCC Access Channel in the repeat
mode.
9. Access by Military, California Army National Guard
A. Upon activation of the California Army National Guard (CA ARNG) in support of a
Major Incident, access to the LARTCS is accomplished by the following procedures
outlined below.
1. CA ARNG units will use organic radio equipment currently in inventories (AN-
VRC/12 series or SINCGARS radios). For units equipped with SINCGARS radios,
operation on the LARTCS w4 tie Single Channel, Non -secure.
2. During operations in support of a Major Incident, all military Command Post (CPs)
will monitor the LARTCS FM Radio Frequencies (36.20).
B. Any CA ARNG unit may also access the LARTCS frequencies to establish direct
communications with all agencies involved in the LARTCS activation.
C. All communications conducted on the LARTCS will be in the CLEAR. Radio codes,
acronyms, and abbreviations are to be avoided, as they may cause confusion between
agencies. Agency name shall precede call sign.
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10. Wide Area Incidents
A. As soon as the SCC Watch Commander becomes aware that a Wide Area Emergency has
occurred, or when so directed, he will immediately insure that the LARTC System is
activated in the default configuration. This is to facilitate instant interoperability between
all responding agencies. SCC will transmit a Secoded broadcast on the SCC Access
channel to notify agencies of the LARTC System activation.
11. Active Incident utilizing the LARTCS
A. In order to prevent confusion and/or missed radio communications, agencies monitoring
the LARTCS, who are not actively involved in an ongoing incident, must not respond to
any calls for assistance. Utilization of the LARTCS is only approved as stated in Section
1 of this document.
12. To Report Problems.
A. Any questions or problems with the LARTC System should be directed to the SCC Watch
Commander at (323) 267-2504.
Respectfully submitted,
Ropert Sedita, Chairman John Penido,'Vice,,Chairman
Los Angeles Regional Tactical Communications Executive Committee
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LARTCS
Appendix A-v.1
Frequency Description
The following frequencies can be connected to the LARTC system. Additional frequencies may
be added in the future. Notification of newly added frequencies will be disseminated to all
participating local, county, state, federal and military agencies:
1. VHF Low Band
i. California ,Army National Guard 36.20 Mhz
ii. CLEMARS7 - 45.860 Mhz TX - 39.460'Mhz RX.
2. VBP High band 148-172 Mhz
i. I NALEMARS-155.475 Mhz CSQ.
I NALEMARS Repeater 150.79 Mhz PL 156.7 Tx/ 155.475 Mhz Rx CSQ.
W. Secret Service Dispatch
iv. FBI Dispatch
v . U.S. Coast Guard - Coast Guard designated channel
3. UHF Federal agencies 406-420 Mhz
i. Mt. "D" - 415.8000 (103.5) TX - 406.8000 (103.5)
4. UHF 450-512 Mhz
i. SCC Access is 486.5625 (186.2) TX - 483.5625 (CS) RX
ii. M-AID 1486.5875 (186.2) TX - 483.5875 (CS) RX
in M-AID 2 487.0875 (186.2) TX - 484.0875 (CS) RX
iv. M-AID 3 486.7875 (186.2) TX - 483.7875 (CS) RX'
V. WAID 4 487.1375 (186.2) TX - 484.1375 (CS}RX
via M-AID 5 487.0625 (186.2) TX - 483.0625(CS) RX
5. UHF 800 IV&
i. ITAC4 823.0125' 056,7) TX - 868.0125 (156.7)
C. Use of these channels and frequencies can only be granted to agencies that have agreed
to, and have submitted, a signed copy of the LARTCS Memorandum of Understanding
(MOU). Failure to comply with the operating guidelines set forth in the MOU may be
grounds for termination of the MOU.
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FIELD INSTRUCTIONS:
A wallet size card is available for field resources.to reinforce access procedures into the RTC
system. Indicated below is a copy of the field card.
Los Angeles Regional Tactical Communications System
Emergency- Event
When direct communications with other participating
agencies is not available or after the desired agency has
been contacted:
1. Contact SCC Watch Commander at (323) 267-2504
or via SCC access channel
2. Advise SCC whom you wish to communicate with
3. Advise participating agency(ies) that the LARTC System
is active and the assigned channel/frequency
4. Notify SCC and participating agency when activity is
Los Angeles Regional Tactical Communications System
Prgp noted :event:
1. Contact SCC"Watch command" (323) 267-2504
with dates and times of event
2. Advise SCt with whom;you ash #o communicate
3. Advise participating`agency(ies) that'the LARTC system
is active and assigned channel/frequency
4. Notify SCC and participating agency"when activity is
completed
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