Title
Resolution to Approve the Master Services and Purchasing Agreement with Axon Enterprise, Inc. for the Purchase of Conducted Electrical Weapons (CEW) (commonly known as Tasers) ($34,780.00)
Memorandum
The attached resolution seeks approval of the Master Services and Purchasing Agreement with Axon Enterprise, Inc. (“Axon”) for the purchase of Conducted Electrical Weapons (CEW) commonly known as Tasers, and necessary accessories, in the amount of $34,780.
Funds for the purchase have been budgeted and approved in the FY18 Police budget for capital and forfeiture funds. The majority of the tasers in service have been recently replaced, however, there are still 20 tasers that are in service that are beyond their warranty. Despite performing routine maintenance on these devices their electronic components are beginning to fail. As with all devices that contain electronic components, these are becoming obsolete. It is more cost-effective to replace them versus repair them. In time, replacement components will no longer be available from the manufacturer.
This is a sole source purchase. AAPD currently utilizes tasers manufactured by Axon Enterprise Inc. The purchase of the same type and brand of CEW will allow us to integrate them with our current CEW without the need to train officers on how to use a different brand or stock multiple types of cartridges for different brands. In addition, Purchasing has determined that since Axon Enterprise Inc. is the sole distributor of these CEW in the state of Michigan, and has adopted a direct distribution model, there would be no benefit to the City for a competitive ITB process.
Approval of the purchase is recommended.
Staff
Prepared by: Kimberly Buselmeier, Financial Analyst
Reviewed by: Robert Pfannes, Interim Police Chief, Police Department
Approved by: Howard Lazarus, City Administrator
Body
Whereas, The Ann Arbor Police Department (“AAPD”) values human life and the reduction of injuries to violent suspects as well as reducing injuries to its police officers;
Whereas, Axon Enterprise Inc. (“Axon”) is the recognized leader in providing conducted electrical weapons (“CEWs”) for controlling violent suspects and reducing injuries;
Whereas, Axon is the sole distributor in Michigan of the CEWs currently used by AAPD and there are both cost efficiencies and training benefits to continuing to purchase this brand of conducted electrical weapons;
Whereas, Axon complies with the requirements of the City’s Non-Discrimination and Living Wage Ordinances; and
Whereas, Funds for the purchase of CEWs were budgeted and approved in the FY18 Police Department budget for capital and forfeiture funds;
RESOLVED, That City Council approve the purchase from Axon of 20 CEWs and necessary accessories (including holsters and cartridges), totaling $34,780.00; and
RESOLVED, That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to sign the Master Services and Purchasing Agreement after approval as to substance by the City Administrator and approval as to form by the City Attorney.