LANSING, MI— On Monday, State Representative Gina Johnsen (R-Portland) testified before a House Appropriations Committee in support of a $1 million legislatively directed spending request for Kent County’s Real Time Intelligence Center, also known as the RTIC.

The RTIC serves as a centralized public safety hub that allows dispatchers and law enforcement to coordinate real time information from camera systems and emergency technology across the region. The project would expand the network throughout Kent County and into neighboring communities through software, hardware, and infrastructure upgrades.

“Public safety depends on fast, accurate information when emergencies happen,” Johnsen said. “The RTIC helps first responders and dispatch work together in real time so they can respond faster, coordinate more effectively, and better protect the public.”

The requested funding would support expanded integration of public and voluntarily shared private camera systems, improved dispatch connectivity, upgraded software and hardware systems, and additional infrastructure needed to strengthen emergency response capabilities across West Michigan.

Johnsen emphasized that the project builds on existing infrastructure and partnerships while improving coordination between jurisdictions during emergencies and active incidents.

“When seconds matter, better coordination can save lives,” Johnsen said. “This is a practical investment in public safety that helps protect both law enforcement and the communities they serve.”

Kent County Undersheriff Bryan Muir joined Johnsen in support of the request and provided additional testimony on the operational benefits and regional impact of the RTIC expansion.