From
Fred Bates, Jr.
Title
Price agreement for Safariland ballistic vests from GT Distributors, Inc., in the annual estimated amount of $85,000 for one year with the option to renew for four additional one-year periods if all extensions are exercised; and authorize the City Manager to execute the renewal options with aggregate price fluctuations of the lesser of up to $50,000 or 25% of the original maximum price so long as sufficient funding is appropriated by the City Council to satisfy the City's obligation during the renewal terms
Presenter
Chief Steve Dye, Police Department, and Ryan Simpson, Police Department
Recommended Action
Approve
Analysis
The City of Grand Prairie has established a Police Department to provide the citizens of Grand Prairie with a first class public safety response to police emergencies and calls for service based on a Community Policing philosophy. Although the Department remains committed to the professional advancement of the Community Policing philosophy, Staff must also be vigilant and progressive in planning for officer safety initiatives in this rapidly changing climate.
Historically, law enforcement tactics and equipment have gone through several evolutionary changes as a result of shifting trends in police equipment and technology. Recent advances in ballistic panels, trauma plates and carriers, (which make up the totality of the bulletproof vest), have been tested by members of the Police Department. The Safariland Group, a reputable equipment company that supplies law enforcement agencies nationwide, recently produced an ergonomic and extremely light weight vest that promotes reduced temperatures for ideal comfort when worn by officers. Members of the Police Department tested these vests and were overwhelmingly satisfied with the design and comfort. Although the wearing of bulletproof vests has long been mandated by Departmental policy, the use of this particular vest will make its wear more than manageable during each officer’s assigned shift.
Notice of bid# 17056 was viewed by 12 vendors. One Grand Prairie vendor, Red the Uniform Tailor, viewed the bid. Two bids were received as shown on attachment A.
The low bid received from GT Distributors, Inc. meets specifications and is recommended for award.
Financial Consideration
Funds are available in the Police Department’s General Fund and Crime Tax Fund budgets, and will be charged accordingly on orders through the end of the current fiscal year. Funding for future fiscal years will be paid from that year's approved budget.