The new 9-1-1 Center, which is currently under construction, must be furnished with fifteen (15) workstations to accommodate employees and equipment.   Twelve workstations are required in the dispatch room and an additional three workstations are to be installed in the training room.   9-1-1 workstations are specialized pieces of furniture that are configured for up to 10 video display monitors and multiple computer CPUs.  Watson workstations were chosen for their durability, employee comfort features, and climate controlled equipment cabinets.  Watson is the approved supplier on a competitively bid NASPO contract and Montana cities may purchase this equipment without conducting their own bidding or Requests For Proposals. 
 

City Council may:

• Approve purchasing fifteen Watson 9-1-1 workstations or;
• Disapprove the purchase and provide further guidance to staff.

The $221,965.98 cost for the 15 workstations includes design, delivery and professional installation.  This cost was included in the budget for the new facility that was previously approved by City Council.  9-1-1 funds are available for this project.

Staff recommends that the City Council approve purchasing fifteen Watson emergency communications workstations in the amount of $221,965.98 for the new 9-1-1 facility.