A $ 3.6-million-dollar five-tower emergency radio system in Clinton County can now move forward after an agreed order of dismissal, with prejudice, was entered in Clinton County Court on Thursday.
Sheriff Dan Travous says work on the much needed radio system will begin immediately following the issuance of the court’s ruling. He reports the process of contacting the contractors has started so work can begin as soon as possible.
Clinton County Board Chair Brad Knolhoff is thanking everyone who worked so very hard over the last few years to make the new system a reality.
While four of the towers will be used for emergency services only, the tower on the Kaskaskia College campus will also be used for cell service. College President George Evans says this will help fill a major hole in cell service that impacts the college area.
“As of right now we are just excited for them to start moving dirt. For several reasons, to enhance cellular service that we have. We still have to find a provider. But most importantly, it is for the safety of our students, staff, and our first responders, the fire departments, sheriff’s department, and any type of officer, including our own, to have effective communications between dispatch and their people. It’s been non-existent for too long.”
The KC tower will be located west of the wastewater treatment plant.
While the court battle and hearing before the Clinton County Zoning Board of Appeals only involved the Germantown tower site, construction on the entire system was held up because it is part of one system. Several residents near the Germantown tower argued it would lower their property values.
