The Grimes County Sheriff’s Office is getting an upgrade to their over decade old fuel system.
IT Director Gregg Cannon says after 13 years, their current Phoenix Fuel System is entirely outdated.
“Anytime we have any trouble, Phoenix says they cannot help. They have before, out of their graciousness, helped us when it has gone down, to the best of their ability. But, they do not support it anymore, it is not supported on the platform we have anymore. It is completely obsolete,” said Cannon. “They do not have hardware parts, or software updates for it. So, if it goes down, we are down. There is no backup plan for it, or anything.”
That was during last week’s commissioner court meeting.
He presented a few options to choose from, ultimately recommending the most expensive one, FCS Fuel.
IT Tech Andrew Duncan also said this new system, unlike the old one, provides more feedback information from the cars, and can save money down the line.
“That information is then drawn back onto our system, where anyone in the office can look, and see one car is overdue for an oil change, or a car is reporting bad in cylinder one…it is more a cost up front for preventative maintenance. Hopefully, we do not have cars breaking down, for reasons we do not understand, because we have this information…before it turns into a big expense later,” said Duncan.
Inside that package as well are 40 sensor kits to be installed on vehicles, which will provide the information feedback.
Commissioners approved the deal for the new fuel system, at a total cost of $33,504. Duncan added that other departments also use the system, and might be fitted with the kits as well.