I remain puzzled why you guys are discussing compromise antennas in an
emergency communications system. I wonder if the fire department guys built a
compromise VHF/UHF communications system when they spec'd out their
requirements and performance. Did they hide their 154 MHz antennas under the
roof? Did they look for a means to "just get by?" Did they mount a rubber
ducky, with a gutter clip on the backside of the firehouse under the rain
gutter, and connect it with RG-58 to their radio?
If this is a for-real emergency communications solution that the community
desires, and they have asked amateur radio operators to be prepared (that is
truly an honor) then don't we hams owe it to the community and our own
reputation to build them a station, with antenna, that WORKS, that puts out a
solid, dependable signal?

Rick K2XT