Friday March 14, 2003

UPDATE: ACS / ARES MOU SIGNED

L-R: Rich Freitas, KF6SZA, ARES Sonoma County DEC; Ken Harrison, N6MHG, ACS Radio Officer; Len Gwinn, WA6KLK, ARRL SF Section Manager; Sandy Covall, Sonoma County Dept. of Emergency Services, Emergency Services Coordinator.

Several months ago ACS and ARES representatives met to work through the issues that have stood between the two groups for the last three years. As a result, ACS drafted a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) last November. This MOU formally establishes a framework for mutual recognition and future cooperation between the two groups. This good-faith effort will put the relationship between ARES and ACS on the correct path.

We are pleased to announce that ARES and ACS officials have signed the MOU. Acceptance of the MOU shows that both organizations stand together in their commitment to emergency communications and service to the community.

Many thanks go out to Rich Freitas KF6SZA for planting the seed; Roger Sigtermans KF6RWE for preparing the MOU; Lee Dibble KE6EAQ and Len Gwinn WA6KLK for advancing the MOU through the ARRL; and Jim Goodman KD6JZJ for participation in meetings with the ARRL representatives.

Any questions regarding how this may impact local ACS amateur radio operations should be directed to your Local ACS Unit Leader or the ACS Radio Officer.

( Document: ACS / ARES MOU - March 2003 )