Schuylkill County commissioners moved forward on upgrades and maintenance of emergency communications equipment.

Last week, they approved a $16,000 per month Nokia MPLS microwave maintenance agreement with Green’s Communications, Pottsville.

The 15-year agreement - an initial five year term, with options for two more terms - started on Jan. 1 and ends on Dec. 31, 2037.

The agreement, which has an increase of 15 percent in the fifth and tenth years, covers eight microwave paths and the cost of $2,000 per month per path.

The agreement saves $60,000 in the first five years, $77,000 in the next five years, and $100,000 in the third five years, for a total of $237,000 saved over 15 years, said 911 Communications Center Director Scott Krater.

In other 911 related actions, commissioners agreed to amend a master antenna lease with Jordan Realty, Pottsville, to add five microwave radios and antennas in Ashland, Keffers, and Frackville for an annual rental increase of $48,000.