Discuss, consider and take appropriate action on approving the purchase renewal of Swagit's Extensible Automated Streaming Engine (EASE) software in the amount of $9,540.00 and exempting Swagit Productions, LLC from the competitive bidding requirements per Texas Local Government Code 262.024(a)(7)(D) captive replacement.

Approval of this item will support the integral operations of the Williamson County Commissioner's Court.  EASE Software provides a webcasting system for streaming public meetings live, then archiving for on-demand viewing.

In 2015 Texas House Bill 283 became law requiring certain governmental bodies make audio and video recordings of open meetings available on the internet.  The original agreement with Swagit was approved on 9/15/2015.  Williamson County has since been operating under this agreement as it automatically renews for one-year terms after the initial 5-year term.  It is the Purchasing Agent's recommendation that prior to FY23 the department along with IT, solicit quotes and review cooperative options for this service.  The quote is attached. Agreement shall cover services for a period of 10/1/2021-9/30/2022 at a rate of $795 per month.  IT, legal and budget have reviewed this purchased.  Department contact is Connie Odom.  This expenditure will be charged to FY22 01.0100.0503.004505.