Turf battles have hampered attempts to improve a statewide law enforcement communications system, the director of North Dakota State Radio says.

A system that would allow law enforcement agencies to better communicate with each other became a priority after the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

State Radio Director Russell Timmreck told legislators this week that North Dakota has been getting federal money to upgrade two-way radios, but state officials do not know what kind of equipment counties have.

"The counties don't want to give that information, in some cases, because they're afraid Big Brother's going to take them over," Timmreck said.

"We've got a lot of opportunities here to leverage our resources if everybody will come to the table and be honest and open and say 'Here's my toys, what are your toys?'" he said.

Terry Traynor, the assistant director of the North Dakota Association of Counties, said he believes progress is being made.

Timmreck said a more coordinated statewide system may cost $25 million or more.

- Associated Press