PSST seeks to partner with 700 MHz public-safety license winner

The Public Safety Spectrum Trust Corp. filed an application with the Federal Communications Commission seeking to become the licensee that partners with the winning bidder of the commercial-first responder broadband wireless license in next year’s 700 MHz auction.
“The PSST is moving ahead with all necessary activities toward creating a nationwide wireless broadband network built to meet the mission-critical communications needs of public safety,” said Harlin McEwen, chairman of the non-profit group. “The filing of our application today to be the public-safety broadband licensee represents the collective hard work of public safety and we look forward to a timely decision and license award by the FCC.”
McEwen added: “With time short before the start of the 700 MHz auction, today’s filing is one of several important steps we have taken to be an engaged partner for the winner of the D-Block auction.”
The PSST recently named Cyren Call Corp. as its advisor for negotiations with the eventual winner of the commercial-first responder broadband license in the 700 MHz auction, rescheduled to start Jan. 24.
The PSST board of directors is comprised of representatives from the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials-International, the Forestry Conservation Communications Association, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the International Association of Fire Chiefs, the International Municipal Signal Association, the National Association of State Emergency Medical Services Officials, the National Emergency Number Association and the National Sheriffs’ Association. The PSST said the International City/County Management Association and the National Governors Association have been invited to name representatives to the PSST board.
Meantime, FCC Chairman Kevin Martin yesterday testified before the House Small Business Committee that 700 MHz rules will benefit small companies and promote wireless broadband deployment in rural areas. But Martin’s main focus at the moment is Verizon Wireless’ court appeal of the FCC’s 700 MHz open access rule.
Google Inc. and the Public Interest Spectrum Coalition joined Frontline Wireless L.L.C. in filing to intervene in support of the FCC. MetroPCS Communications Inc. also has jumped into the fray to back Verizon Wireless’ legal challenge.