Adopt budget resolution in the amount of $70,594 using Patrol FY 2023-24 budgeted funds for the purchase of two ballistic shields, four APX dual-band radios, and two APX dual-band base station radios, and approve the amendment to the FY 2023-24 Authorized Equipment List. (No general fund impact) (4/5 vote required) (Lopez/Davis)

The Sheriff's Office Patrol Section has identified the need to purchase replacement equipment and items to aid in the safety and security of staff while working in the field.  

The Sheriff's Office is requesting to purchase four APX 8000 dual-band radios to replace existing equipment.  The dual-band radios are needed to meet the mandatory Project 25 (P25) compliance standards for interoperation between regional law enforcement and other support agencies, allowing for the Sheriff’s Office to communicate with other agencies during times of emergencies or other natural disasters.  We currently utilize a mix of programmable two-way and dual-band radios, but are phasing out the two-way radios as they have become obsolete and will soon be out of compliance because they are not able to be encrypted.  An encrypted signal is required in California if staff identify people by name and date of birth via airwave.  By replacing the two-way radios with dual-band radios, staff can continue to communicate with other public safety agencies such as West Sacramento, Davis, Sacramento, and other jurisdictions, eliminate inadequacies, and serve the public in a more efficient manner.  In addition, we are requesting to purchase two APX 8500 transportable base station dual-all band radios that will allow for radio communication during emergency events that call for the establishing of a field station.  The transportable base station will allow for a field command post to better communicate with dispatch and deputy field units. In the past, this communication was done with portable radios, which has resulted in failed transmissions and potential safety risks.

The Sheriff's Office is also requesting the purchase of two additional Level III rifle-rated ballistic shields with vertical and horizontal handles for multiple discipline functionality.  These shields provide cover and concealment during de-escalation activities and entries at all calls for service involving violence, and will maintain a uniformity in appearance with current equipment. 
 
These equipment items will be purchased using budgeted FY 2023-24 funds. The decision to purchase the equipment now instead of mid-year using expenditure savings is due to the need to expedite bringing the items online for use. Waiting until mid-year could also potentially eliminate any currently available stock.
 
Because these items are fixed assets, the Sheriff's Office is also requesting Board authority to amend the 2023-24 Authorized Equipment List.

County Counsel has approved the attached resolution as to form. Purchasing will assist with the procurement of the fixed assets.

A sole source process will be used to purchase ballistic shields.  The pricing for dual-band radios falls under the HGAC Contract.