Correspondence from Gordie Logan, Chair, CREST - Re: Technology Plan

June 26, 2014

Town of View Royal 45 View Royal Avenue View Royal, BC V9B 1A6

Dear Mayor and Council:

I am writing to you as a shareholder of CREST to make you aware of the Technology Plan we are working on, and the process for its review and approval.

CREST was established in 2001 to create a common emergency radio system that would replace the 30 different systems being used by emergency service providers in the region at that time. Starting with 36 user agencies, today we have 50 users groups on the CREST system that have the ability to communicate directly and coordinate effectively.

The Technology Plan is a roadmap for continuing to make system enhancements that further improve reliability and coverage for the 2,000 plus men and women who rely on their CREST radios. Components of the communications platform, and radios, are in many instances over a decade old and in need of ever greening. The plan builds on the current infrastructure while taking advantage of new technologies, and 700 MHz spectrum that has become available.

As a technology-based system, CREST needs to evolve with new technologies as they become available and reliable. We believe the plan we're proposing does that at a reasonable cost. All users will benefit through increased capacity, better coverage and audio quality.

We are currently working with system users to garner their input and support to ensure we meet the unique needs of all public safety groups. Both the Technology Plan and the associated funding to support it was approved by the CREST Board of Directors on May 21st and the next step is to bring it forward for shareholders for funding approval at our EGM scheduled for September 17th.

The proposed plan is consistent with our strategic priority for efficient and effective technology. In implementing it, we are planning for the future within a funding framework for infrastructure of less than 2% increases per year over five years. Radio replacement is the responsibility of each user group and that cost will be estimated and provided to each shareholder prior to the September EGM.

If you would like more information on the Technology Plan or on anything else relating to CREST, please contact General Manager Gord Horth at 250-391-6552 or ghorth@crest.ca. We would be happy to meet with you or make a presentation.

Sincerely,

Gordie Logan Chair of the Board

Cc: Kim Anema