I agree that Skywarn should be separated from ARES and RACES.
While not casting a statement to cover all ARES/RACES groups, as some of
them function well and with Skywarn, I do see an attempt at various levels
within ARES/RACES to control and monopolize local Skywarn efforts.
We need to insure this does not occur, not because ARES/RACES is evil
but rather to prevent it from becoming ham dominated and keeping Skywarn
as an independent entity.
Our group just started utilizing ham systems in the past three years or so.
Before that we used business band radios and systems. With this the
spotter group holds the license and grants authorization to its members
and other important entities to use the private radio frequency.
This works great as people do not have to get any sort of license themselves
and it allows EOCs and other government folks to use the system if they need to. This allows for great linking between the local EOC, the spotter and the spotter bases.
So now we use both ham and business band repeater systems.
I am always quick to say that we are not hams that follow the weather
but rather weather nuts with radios.
I am not putting down anyone as I am a ham and a member of ARES/RACES but I have also seen examples of the issues mentioned in this thread first hand.
If groups do not work and play well with each other then its
time separate them so that they both can function and grow.
Tim