Communications Mismatch - Solution?

Ok, I know that common sense is not allowed to enter into government thinking, but it seems to me that there is NO excuse for not being able to coordinate communication in an ongoing disaster situation when we have a cadre of ham radio operators in this country.

The only reason the government can't seem to figure out they have a resource created for emergency communications is a testament to the gross incompetence displayed at every level of government during this situation. Ham radio operators are required to be available during emergencies when they get their license in the USA. The Salvation Army has figured out how to use Ham Radio operators.

Perhaps police should be encouraged to get their Ham Radio license? This would solve the ongoing issues of mismatched communications equipment when various police forces need to work together. But, of course, because this is horse sense, it won't happen.

I'm totally disgusted by the government response. There has been incompetence at ALL levels. This should not be a surprise to anyone who knows the history of Louisiana. It is the state that has taught others how to be corrupt. (I grew up in Metro Detroit during the 1970s & 1980s - Coleman Young's administration had nothing on the corruption in the great state of Louisiana.) But this tirade probably belongs under another thread...