~ Mesa Vice Mayor Scott Somers has been selected to join the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) Public Safety Advisory Committee (PSAC), a national group that advises on the operation and future development of the country's public safety broadband network.

In his new role, Vice Mayor Somers will play a crucial part in guiding decisions that ensure first responders across the nation, including those serving in Mesa, have access to reliable, secure, and advanced communication technology. The PSAC serves as a vital resource for the FirstNet Authority as it continues to advance the only high-speed, wireless broadband network dedicated exclusively to public safety.

"Effective communication is essential in emergency response," stated Vice Mayor Scott Somers. "Having spent years in the field, I understand that even a few seconds of delay or a dropped signal can make all the difference between life and death. I am honored to join the FirstNet Public Safety Advisory Committee and work towards providing our police, fire, and EMS personnel with reliable and cutting-edge tools to protect our communities safely and efficiently."

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Vice Mayor Somers brings a unique combination of frontline experience and policy leadership to this committee. As a retired firefighter and paramedic, he has served on FEMA's Arizona Task Force One and previously chaired the National League of Cities Public Safety and Crime Prevention Committee. Currently, he also chairs Mesa's Public Safety Committee where he has been instrumental in advocating for modernization efforts such as upgrades to the city's 800 MHz radio systems and implementing Next-Gen 9-1-1 technologies.

Mesa Mayor Mark Freeman praised Vice Mayor Somers' appointment, recognizing its benefits not only for Mesa but also for public safety agencies nationwide.

"Vice Mayor Somers' extensive knowledge of both technical requirements and human realities in emergency response makes him an invaluable asset to this national effort," said Mesa Mayor Mark Freeman. "His leadership will undoubtedly strengthen public safety agencies across the country."

As a member of the committee, Vice Mayor Somers will collaborate with representatives from all public safety disciplines to advise on network enhancements, coverage priorities, and the integration of emerging technologies such as AI and advanced data analytics to better support responder workflows. His expertise and experience will be crucial in shaping the future of public safety communication technology.

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