The RING Radio System is a countywide partnership that strengthens emergency communications through shared leadership and coordinated planning. Guided by the Master Service and Governance Agreement (MSGA), local agencies work together to maintain a reliable, interoperable network that supports public safety across the region.
Through a tiered system of executive oversight, user representation, and technical expertise, this cooperative model supports consistent decision making, sustainable operations, and a unified approach to improving emergency communications for all who live, work, and visit the region.
Governance activities are conducted in compliance with applicable California open meeting laws, including the Brown Act. Public agendas, meeting materials and actions taken by governing bodies are made available to the public, providing opportunities for residents to stay informed and engage with participating agencies.
Learn more about the RING Governance model:
Interoperability is core to the RING initiative, and the governance model reflects the same principle as defined by the Master Service and Governance Agreement (MSGA). The MSGA is initially comprised of the County of Santa Cruz, the cities of Santa Cruz, Watsonville, Capitola, and Scotts Valley, and the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC). These agencies form the foundational membership of the RING system and collectively share governance authority, operational responsibilities, and the long‑term financial obligations associated with the regional network. As members, each agency participates in system planning, policy development, and cost allocation decisions through the MSGA's governance structure. Additional public agencies may join the RING system in the future subject to the membership and buy‑in provisions outlined in the MSGA.
The MSGA provides the foundational framework under which the Regional Interoperable Next Generation (RING) Radio System will be governed, operated, expanded, and financially supported. It establishes the formal relationship between the County and Member Agencies, defines shared obligations, and ensures that system operations remain coordinated, transparent, and financially sustainable. The agreement represents the transition from informal system planning and management to a structured, multi-agency governance framework capable of supporting a modern, mission critical public safety communications system. The MSGA establishes a three-tier governance structure supported by the Executive Committee, the Regional User Group (RUG), and the Technical Advisory Group (TAG). This tiered model reinforces transparency, promotes shared decision making, and ensures that the system remains responsive to the needs of both frontline users and agency leadership.
The Executive Committee is comprised of executive level representatives from each Member Agency and serves as the primary oversight body, providing strategic direction, budget recommendations, and overall governance for the RING Radio System. It functions as an advisory commission to the Board of Supervisors and ensures regional alignment on policy and financial decisions.
RING Executive Committee
The RUG serves as the operational advisory body to the RING Executive Committee, providing insights into system performance and user experience. Each Member and Subscriber agency may provide a representative to the RUG.
TAG is the technical advisory body responsible for evaluating technical standards, system modifications, and planned upgrades. TAG Membership is derived from each Member Agency as well as from the Law and Fire Chiefs Associations. Specific technical and operational expertise is required to be a member of the TAG.
The MSGA has a 10-year term and contemplates the potential future creation of a Joint Powers Authority (JPA), allowing the system’s governance structure to evolve as membership grows and the system matures. Any transition to a JPA would require negotiation, approval from all Member Agencies, and action by the Board of Supervisors. This framework provides a flexible but stable foundation for long term system governance, financial sustainability, and equitable participation across jurisdictions.
RING Meetings, Agendas, and Minutes