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  Consent  
4.
         
Brentwood City Commission Agenda
Meeting Date: 07/27/2020  
Authorization to Purchase Dash Cameras and Related Software for Fire Apparatus
Submitted by: Brian Goss, Fire & Rescue
Department: Fire & Rescue  

Information
Subject
Authorization to Purchase Dash Cameras and Related Software for Fire Apparatus
Background
The Fire & Rescue Department began exploring the use of dash-mounted cameras in apparatus in 2018.  This came about as a recommendation from the Police Department.  Similar to their use in patrol cars, dash cameras can be utilized to capture footage that can prove valuable from a training perspective while at the same time enhancing transparency and accountability.

Video evidence can also be utilized to help protect both the vehicle operator and the City from potential liability. For instance, the Fire & Rescue Department began a trial with various dash camera products between January 2018 and January 2020. Approximately one year ago, Engine 53 was involved in a motor vehicle accident at the intersection of Moores Lane and Mallory Lane.  The driver that struck the Engine claimed that she had the green light.  However, video pulled from the dash camera being tested at the time showed that Engine 53 entered the intersection on the green light. Once presented with this information, the other party chose not to pursue the matter any further.  On two other occasions, citizen complaints regarding apparatus drivers were investigated and found to be without merit based upon dash camera footage.

Given the recommendation from law enforcement as well as our own experiences during the trial period, the Fire & Rescue Department requested, and was granted, funding in the FY 2021 Annual Operating Budget to equip all of our front-line apparatus and vehicles with dash cameras.  In working with the IT Department, it was ultimately determined that utilizing the camera product from Utility Associates, Inc. would provide significant cost savings since the electronic infrastructure for this product already exists in our apparatus. 

We currently utilize the mobile gateway system provided by Utility for vehicle GPS and tracking services.  Therefore, the cameras would be considered an expansion of the existing system already being used by the City and would prelude us from having to purchase all new technology.  Since the interface and functionality of the camera system is unique to Utility, it is considered a sole-source product.

Funding was provided in the Annual Operating Budget in the amount of $6,500 for cameras and hardware, and $12,600 for software installation, licensing, maintenance, and storage, for a total of $19,100.  The quote provided by Utility, with discounts, totals $18.850.00

Please contact the Fire Chief with any questions you may have.      
Staff Recommendation
Staff recommends authorization to purchase dash cameras and related software for fire apparatus from Utility in the amount of $18,850.

Fiscal Impact
Amount : $12,600
Source of Funds: General Fund
Account Number: 110-42200-82605
Fiscal Impact:
Funds are available in the Fire Department's R/M Office Machinery and Equipment line item.
 
Amount : $6,250
Source of Funds: General Fund
Account Number: 110-42200-83555
Fiscal Impact:
Funds are available in the Fire Department's Misc. Technology Non-Capital line item. 
Attachments
Quote
Sole Source Letter

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