DEPARTMENT: Sheriff
FILE TYPE: Consent Action
TITLE
title
Authorization To Execute Contract With Axon Enterprise, Inc. For Fleet And Body Worn Camera Equipment, Data Storage, And Support
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PURPOSE/ACTION REQUESTED
Authorize the Sheriff to execute a contract with Axon Enterprise, Inc. for fleet and body worn camera equipment, data storage, and support.
SUMMARY
In public safety, the community, prosecutors, and juries have come to expect law enforcement agencies to present video and audio evidence with criminal cases. There is also a demand for public transparency with critical incidents and public contacts. Data shows that the presence of squad dash cameras and body worn cameras reduces liability, prevents frivolous allegations, and holds the staff accountable to his or her actions.
In 2019, the Sheriff’s Office worked closely with the Dakota County Attorney’s Office and developed the Sheriff’s Office body-worn camera policy. In August 2019, as required by Minnesota State Statute, the Sheriff’s Office and the County Board of Commissioners provided the opportunity for public comment prior to the purchase and implementation of a body worn camera system. In the fall of 2019, upon finalization of the body worn camera policy, the Sheriff’s Office piloted camera systems with potential vendors. Following evaluation, the County Board of Commissioner authorized the Sheriff to execute a five-year contract with Axon Enterprise, Inc. to provide 43 fleet dash cameras and 50 body-worn cameras to include support, warranties, equipment upgrades, and data storage. The Sheriff implemented body-worn cameras in patrol in May 2020. The Sheriff has since greatly expanded the number of body-worn cameras beyond patrol to all licensed deputies, correctional deputies, and park rangers. The addition of this technology has provided valuable evidence aiding in successful prosecution, reduced the number of frivolous public complaints, and reduced liability and cost to the County.
The current contract with Axon Enterprise, Inc. expires on December 30, 2024. The Sheriff’s Office is pleased with the camera system and support Axon Enterprise, Inc. has provided and negotiated to extend the contract for an additional five years through December 31, 2029. The Sheriff recommends executing a five-year contract with Axon Enterprise, Inc. at a total cost of $1,610,647 for 208 fleet and body worn camera equipment, data storage, and support.
RECOMMENDATION
recommendation
Authorize the Sheriff to execute a contract with Axon Enterprise, Inc. for fleet and body worn camera equipment, data storage, and support for the period of five years beginning December 31, 2024 and ending December 30, 2029.
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EXPLANATION OF FISCAL/FTE IMPACTS
Annual operating costs for storage, warranty, and support is included in the County Manager’s 2025 recommended budget.
☐ None ☒ Current budget ☒ Other
☐ Amendment Requested ☐ New FTE(s) requested
RESOLUTION
body
WHEREAS, in 2019, the Sheriff’s Office requested, and the Dakota County Board of Commissioners approved funding to replace Sheriff’s Office’s patrol dash cameras and add body worn cameras to the patrol division; and
WHEREAS, the Sheriff’s Office recommended, and the Dakota County Board of Commissioners approved to execute a five-year contract with Axon Enterprise, Inc. through December 30, 2024 to provide fleet dash cameras, body-worn cameras, warranty, storage, and support; and
WHEREAS, and the current contract expires on December 30, 2024; and
WHEREAS, the Sheriff is pleased with the system and support Axon Enterprise, Inc. has provided, and the Sheriff recommends executing a five-year contract through December 31, 2029; and
WHEREAS, the annual cost of the contract is included in the County Manager’s 2025 recommended budget and Public Safety Funds will cover costs beyond the Sheriff’s Office budget throughout the duration of the five-year contract.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Sheriff is hereby authorized to execute a contract with Axon Enterprise, Inc.to provide fleet and body worn camera equipment, data storage, and support for the period of December 31, 2024, through December 30, 2029.
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PREVIOUS BOARD ACTION
19-903; 12/17/19
ATTACHMENTS
None.
BOARD GOALS
☐ A Great Place to Live ☐ A Healthy Environment
☐ A Successful Place for Business and Jobs ☒ Excellence in Public Service
CONTACT
Department Head: Leko, Joseph
Author: Leko, Joseph