Funding
In order to implement SLERS, DMS entered into a "public/private partnership" with Harris Corporation (formerly Tyco Electronics). In return for the conveyance of selected State-owned communications tower and tower assets, Harris extended $26.4 million in credits to the State for radios, radio equipment and accessories. In addition to these credits, Harris provided additional credits to replace 6,000 radios formerly used by the State. For providing the services in the contract, Harris was paid a $40 million advance payment. Additionally, the company receives an on-going proceeds from a motor vehicle and vessel registration surcharge (approximately $15 - $18 million annually) less certain stipulated expenses incurred by the State. This revenue stream to Harris provided the initial system infrastructure (communications towers, system equipment, and dispatch consoles) and ongoing system maintenance.
SLERS Enhacement Funds:
The Department of Management Services receives funding to improve and enhance SLERS under Section 318.18(17) Florida Statues which provide revenues from certain criminal offenses and moving traffic violations. The enhancement funds are dedicated to the improvement of coverage, capacity and operation of the radio system and the Department’s oversight in conjunction with guidance advice from the Joint Task Force on State Agency Law Enforcement Communications.
The Harris contract provides for revenue sharing in two ways:
- After the initial term, the State will receive 50% of all net revenues received from third-party tenants on communications towers conveyed to Harris from the State for an additional 30 years;
- For any SLERS Partners, the State receives 5% of the gross revenue.
Joint Task Force Agencies must provide radios for their users and the remaining dispatch center facilities, equipment and expenses. There is no charge to JTF agencies for use of the SLERS system.