LANSING – Two from the Upper Peninsula were appointed to the state Public Safety Communications Interoperability Board. They were two of five and two re-appointments made by Gov. Rick Snyder.

The board oversees Michigan’s 800 MHz radio system and telecommunications network, which provides statewide interoperability in digital clarity to its members. It also adopts procedures governing the organization and operations of the Michigan Public Safety Communications System.

Robert Marchand, of Sault Ste. Marie, is chief of police for the Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians. He has served in his current role since 2010, and has been with the department for 15 years.

Marchand holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Lake Superior State University and studied at the Northern Michigan University Regional Police Academy. He replaces David Slifka and will serve a term ending April 30, 2016.

Bryce Tracy, of St. Ignace, is 911 coordinator for the Mackinac County 911 service. He also serves as fire chief for the St. Ignace Fire Department and has 24 years’ experience working public service.

Tracy is also involved in emergency management as a member of his local emergency planning committee, the Upper Peninsula Homeland Security Planning Board – Michigan Statewide Communications Workgroup, as well as other fire and 911 associations and organizations. He replaces James Buford and will serve a term ending April 30, 2014.