Trinity County Commissioners dealt with technology issues and grants at its regular meeting on Feb. 24.
The court approved switching its backup internet and phone service from AT&T to Starlink, which would kick in when the regular service provided by Windstream goes down. Representatives said that Windstream has gone down four times for extended periods in the last three months, and Starlink service would automatically kick in. The cost would be $65 per month for the service.
Commissioners also approved switching companies that provide networking equipment, from Fortinet to Ubiquiti, which will be more reliable at a cheaper cost. Currently, the county pays $5,000 per year for the subscription, which has been increasing at about 10 percent a year; with Ubiquiti, after an initial outlay of $10,000 for setup, there is no fee.
The county approved submitting applications to the state for a grant to help local law enforcement combat terrorism; and for a $100,000 security grant for non-profits to the state Public Safety Office, which will be used to replace security cameras.
While the county took no action, commissioners discussed creating a Trinity County Ground Water Authority to protect its resources. County Attorney Colton Hay said it was recommended to keep out-of-state and single entities from purchasing more water that would be available, causing a financial burden to residents. Hay will meet with representatives from Houston County for information on the process.
