From
Fred Bates, Jr.
Title
Purchase of pole-mounted surveillance cameras from GTS Technology Solutions, Inc. in the amount of $281,400 through the national inter-local agreement with the Texas Department of Information Resources (DIR)
Presenter
Steve Dye, Chief of Police / Deputy City Manager, and Christy Martinez, Assistant Chief of Police
Recommended Action
Approve
Analysis
The Grand Prairie Police Department along with other City departments utilized mounted camera systems for many years for a multiple purposes in the interest of the citizens and visitors of the City. The Police Department uses camera systems as a method of surveillance, crime deterrence and conducting criminal investigations. This system incorporates a high-resolution camera that has the ability to monitor and record public areas. The locations chosen for utilization of the system are event venues, high-risk public infrastructure, and high crime locations determined through data driven information. The use of these cameras as integrated into the Real Time Crime Center will significantly enhance the Police Department's ability to continue providing a safe environment and a high quality of life for its citizens and visitors.
Chapter 271.102 of the Local Government Code authorizes local governments to participate in a cooperative purchasing program with another local government or local cooperative organization. In lieu of competitive bidding, items and services may be purchased through such agreements as the agreements have already been bid by the sponsoring entity or agency. The City of Grand Prairie has master inter-local cooperative agreements with various entities including DIR.
DIR provides statewide leadership and oversight for management of government information and communications technology. DIR has served in a leadership role to facilitate the state’s economic competitiveness through its ability to deliver quality information resources commodities and services at the lowest prices and best value for state and local government as well as the K-12 public and higher education systems
GTS Technology Solutions, Inc., through their DIR contract offers technology related items, including the surveillance cameras in this proposed purchase. The contract will expire 11/4/2019, with one one-year extension remaining.
Financial Consideration
Funding in the amount of $53,713.30 is available in the UASI FY 2018 Surveillance Camera grant project. Funding in the amount of $227,686.70 is available in the FY 2019 Crime Tax Fund budget.