The report, released Friday, examined radio communication systems used by fire agencies serving unincorporated areas and found that challenging terrain, limited funding and delayed adoption of newer technology have contributed to inconsistent coverage.
According to the findings, large portions of the county experience unreliable radio signals. Radio signals also may not be available in their area. Digital radio coverage, which is widely used for clearer communication, does not reach about 42 percent of the county’s geographic area. Analog radio, which has broader reach but lower quality, still leaves about 18 percent of the county without coverage.
The report states that these gaps create a risk for both residents and emergency responders, particularly during life-threatening situations where communication is critical.
Investigators identified several areas with limited or no coverage, including parts of North Salinas, Prunedale, Carmel Valley Village, Big Sur and south Monterey County. Coverage issues also extend indoors, where buildings can block radio signals.
Monterey County’s geography was cited as a major factor. The region spans more than two million acres, with elevations ranging from sea level to over 5,800 feet, creating natural barriers that interfere with radio transmission.
The report also points to the complexity of the county’s fire protection system. Multiple independent fire districts operate across unincorporated areas, each with its own funding and equipment. This has led to uneven adoption of communication technology and coordination challenges between agencies.
Firefighters often rely on a mix of analog and digital radios and must manually adjust frequencies depending on their location. The report found that while experienced personnel are able to navigate these systems, newer responders or those working outside their usual areas may face delays or communication breakdowns.
Efforts are underway to improve the system through the county’s Next Generation Radio Network project, which is testing newer technologies such as LTE, Wi-Fi and low-orbit satellite communication. Early testing suggests these options could reduce coverage gaps, but they have not yet been fully implemented.
Cost remains a major barrier. Building additional radio towers can improve coverage, but each tower can exceed $1 million due to difficult terrain and limited access. Newer radios that support multiple communication modes can cost about $12,000 per unit, placing additional strain on fire districts that must purchase their own equipment.
Funding for fire districts largely comes from property taxes, which have been limited since the passage of Proposition 13. The report found that this funding model does not provide enough revenue to support necessary upgrades to communication systems.
The civil grand jury issued several recommendations, including directing the Monterey County Board of Supervisors to develop a plan to address radio coverage gaps, identify funding sources and support fire districts in upgrading equipment.
County officials are required to respond to the findings and recommendations within 90 days.
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