Editor's note: This is a corrected version of the printed story in the Oct. 10 Post Review.

By MaryHelen Swanson

Chisago County commissioners renewed an agreement with the Metropolitan Emergency Services Board (MESB).

Sheriff Todd Rivard believes it is necessary and will be of great value, if not now, in the future.

Memberships is important, he said, for three reasons: Chisago County would lose its voice in the 8MHz radio system, it is important for the 7MHz data loop and 911.

If Chisago County is not a part of this board there is a possibility of a fee for 911 or not being on it al all. Commissioner Lynn Schultz, who said she talked to Rivard one-to-one, feels Chisago County is getting a payback on the county's investment in the board.

The county joined the MESB in Sept. 2006 paying $13,011 in dues and receiving two seats on the board.

To date the county has spent $400,000 to $500,000 for two channels on the system, 100 portables and two control stations for the dispatch.

Membership for 2008 will cost the county $18,453.

If the county doesn't renew membership in this joint powers group, it will not be able to use its system or have control over any of the equipment it owns.

The MESB supports public safety for Anoka, Carver, Chisago, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott and Washington counties by maintaining and enhancing 911 service, interoperable regional radio system and facilitating coordination of Emergency Medical Services (EMS).

The board provides 911 network oversight, establishes standards and guidelines for 911 service and coordinates the 911 database to ensure accuracy and integrity of the 911 system.

It also coordinates the regional activities, provides a forum for problem-solving, plans and prepares for changes in the 911, radio and EMS industries and educates the public about how to access 911 and EMS.

"It's a good deal," said Sheriff Rivard noting that it will pay more in the future, especially if something happens at the Rush City prison or elsewhere where is is important to be on the 800MHz system.

Rivard noted that the county will be forced into the 800MHz in the future and the county's cost is expected to be $12 million.

But for now, Rivard's focus is in the building of a new jail. The 800MHz system is not his number one priority.

At a worksession on Oct. 31, at 9 a.m. the county board will discuss the jail, the road improvement plan and the budget.

In other business, the county board:

• Approved hiring an office support specialist for Health and Human Services, waiving the three-months waiting period due to staffing levels;

• Approved hiring an assistant county attorney I with no waiting period because it is an essential position. Approved hiring a half-time attorney for prosecution.

• Authorized the county administrator to spend a couple of thousand dollars for a property appraisal on the title company in the government center parking lot.

• Accepted $1,400 from the Rush City Eagles toward a defibrillator in the Rush City contract car.