City Council to Vote on LAPD Radio Contract

After weeks of delay, a key City Council panel approved a multimillion dollar contract for a new Los Angeles Police Department radio system, clearing the way for a full council vote next week.

The $51-million contract with Motorola Inc. raised questions from some council members, who were concerned that a previous contract with the company was delayed by significant problems that required many changes. Public Safety Committee Chairwoman Laura Chick delayed the radio contract until she could be assured that the previous one was meeting police satisfaction.

On Wednesday, she said she has several problems with the latest contract but ultimately agreed to pass the issue to the full council.

LAPD Chief Bernard C. Parks, who appeared before the panel, said previous problems with a computer contract are under control and he urged the panel not to stall on the radio portion.

“We will not pay for anything until we are satisfied with what we receive,” Parks said, referring to the computer contract. “We feel certain from the cooperation and contacts we’ve had with Motorola . . . that they have every intent of bringing that contract to conclusion.”

The council is expected to review both the contract and recommendations for its oversight on Tuesday.