HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 1g: Purchase of Replacement Mobile Digital Computers for Police Department.Boa
STAFF REPORT
Police Department
DATE: March 5, 2013
TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council
FROM: Robert Guthrie, Chief of Police
By: Adriana Garcia, Management Analyst
SUBJECT: APPROVE THE PURCHASE OF NINE MOTOROLA MDCs AND
ACCESSORIES FOR THE POLICE DEPARTMENT FROM DAY WIRELESS
SYSTEMS IN THE AMOUNT OF $54,190.44; AND WAIVE THE FORMAL
BID PROCESS
Recommendation: Approve
SUMMARY
The City's equipment replacement policy establishes timelines for computer
replacement in order to ensure that staff has equipment that is sufficient to meet current
technological demands. Some of the Police Department's mobile digital computers
(MDCs) are over five years old and in need of replacement under this policy. It is
recommended that nine new Motorola brand MDCs be purchased for a total of
$54,190.44. Funds for this purchase have been budgeted in the FY 2012 -13 Capital
Improvement /Equipment Replacement budget (Account 619 - 2103 - 8801).
BACKGROUND
In 2000, the City Council approved the purchase of hardware and software to install
MDCs into police vehicles. Since then, MDCs for patrol units have become the
standard for police department field operations across the country. MDCs allow
officers to quickly access criminal justice data, efficiently communicate with one
another, and write police reports in the field. The resourcefulness of MDCs enhance
officer safety, promote efficiency, and reduce the amount of voice radio traffic, thereby
keeping radio frequencies clear for urgent or emergency transmissions.
Replacement of Motorola MDCs
March 5, 2013
Page 2 of 2
DISCUSSION
Some of the MDCs installed in patrol vehicles are beyond their 5 -year life expectancy
and are in need of replacement. The Department conducted a six month trial of both
Panasonic and Motorola computers in preparation for this purchase — each of which
was comparable in pricing to the other. The trial showed that patrol officers
overwhelmingly supported and preferred the Motorola MDC, citing its ease of use,
quick startup time, and ability to dim quickly. Additionally, by purchasing the Motorola
brand MDCs, the Department's communications system will consist entirely of Motorola
equipment - making it easier to update and integrate with future accessories, systems,
GPS devices, and cameras.
FISCAL IMPACT
Funds for the purchase of the Motorola MDCs have been allocated in the FY 2012 -13
Capital Improvement /Equipment Replacement Fund (Account 619 - 2103 - 8801).
RECOMMENDATION
Approve the purchase of nine Motorola MDCs and accessories for the Police Department
from Day Wireless Systems in the amount of $54,190.44; and waive the formal bid process.
Approved=
Dominic La��are�t�
City Manager