You, the members of APCO International, have spoken, and your will was made known during the 2nd General Business Meeting held at the 78th Annual Conference & Expo on Tuesday afternoon, Aug. 21.

Gigi Smith, who was running unopposed for 1st Vice President, received 913 yes votes, and will be sworn in as APCO 1st Vice President during the Blue & White Gala this evening.

The Business Meeting afforded an opportunity for those in attendance to hear APCO’s leaders give the state of the association.

“Our No. 1 goal is to assert APCO’s leadership in public safety communications at the national level,” said outgoing President Gregg Riddle. “I am humbled and grateful for the opportunity to serve you, and I’m looking forward to continuing to work together to enhance public safety communications.”

Leadership at the national level was a goal echoed by APCO International Executive Director Derek Poarch. He put membership growth at the top of his wish list for the association, saying that in Washington, D.C., being the largest is important. His goal is for APCO membership is to reach 20,000 members and exceed that of the International Association of Police Chiefs by the time of the APCO Conference in Anaheim, Calif., in August 2013.

Acquiring the D Block spectrum and achieving legislation to establish the funding and governance to build a national public safety broadband network has been at the top of APCO’s priority list this past year. And both Poarch and Riddle said that the focus on the network will remain a priority.

Michael Locatis, assistant secretary, cyberspace and communications, Department of Homeland Security, also addressed the attendees. He wanted to ensure APCO members are aware of the technology assistance and training the department can offer.

Association business will continue at the Gala tonight.