A wireless network base station for controlling use of the reduced slot cycle mode by a selected mobile station communicating with the base station. The base station comprises: 1) a message controller for transmitting a Page message to a first mobile station notifying the first mobile station that a data session between the base station and the first mobile station is being activated; and 2) a reduced slot cycle controller coupled to the message controller for receiving from the first mobile station a Page Response message comprising a minimum reduced slot cycle index (SCI) value requested by the first mobile station. The reduced slot cycle controller, in response to receipt of the Page Response message, causes the message controller to transmit to the first mobile station a Release Order message comprising a selected slot cycle index (SCI) value at which the first mobile station will operate.