People can argue the logistics of encryption, interop, wide area channels/talkgroups all day long. At the heart of the matter is government transparaency. There is no reason why day to day primary or dispatch LE channels need to be encrypted. Tac type side channels can be used to convey hot information or handle sensitive situations. The benefits of maintaining public access to day to day operations far outweigh the supposed need to encrypt routine police operations.
As for the fire departments that have encrypted their comms, there is NO reason for this whatsoever. Again, keep a fireground or tac channel encrypted should the need arise to convey sensitive info - but most departments use cellphones for that anyway. Look at DC and Jacksonville, which have returned to in the clear fire comms.
Keep government open to the public. Sending filtered press releases after the fact is not transparency.
BG..