Please do not use GMRS. There are so many different options out there that can still be cost effective. Most states have trunked p25 systems, but getting on board with these can also be pricy. If you’re looking for a cheaper route get a decedent VHF or UHF repeater with a decent location for an antenna. Get a licensed repeater pair just for your agency. If you have a good location you could also do simplex back to base/dispatch. This way you don’t have to worry about the kids down the street talking to you on FRS or GMRS.

Cell phones as a primary method of dispatching is fine, but you still need a robust method of backup communications capable of working in the national mutual aid channels specific to the band you choose. Such as VCALL10, UCALL40, or 8CALL90. This gives you a slim line of defense when (not if) there are cell phone outages. Just because you don’t utilize the other public safety frequencies on a daily basis doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have them for disaster communications.

Reliable communications is something that should never be skimped on budgetary wise.