FirstNet claims Verizon ties are not influencing its plans

Despite some concerns regarding former ties between some appointed board members of the First Responder Network Authority and leading U.S. mobile operators, a FirstNet spokeswoman says there are no conflicts of interest that might impact development of the nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN).

Some observers allege that a cozy relationship exists between certain FirstNet board members representing telecom interests and mobile carriers, particularly Verizon Wireless, and that a secret plan has been drawn up under which the NPSBN will be built out using Verizon's network resources. During a regional meeting held in Denver during late May, FirstNet board member Jeff Johnson denied that the authority has already created a business plan or has decided upon the network design. "You'll know when we have a plan when we vote on it," he said. However, FirstNet Chairman Sam Ginn's financial history with AirTouch Communications continues to fuel rumors of potential conflicts. AirTouch eventually morphed into what is now Verizon Wireless.