AGENDA ITEM
TO: HONORABLE MAYOR
AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FROM: CARLO TOMAINO
CITY MANAGER
BY: BRAD KENNEALLY
CHIEF OF POLICE
SUBJECT:
title
CONTRACT SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH AXON ENTERPRISE, INCORPORATED FOR TASER EQUIPMENT
summary
Summary:
The Signal Hill Police Department has utilized less-lethal devices to enhance officer safety for the past twenty years. The preferred brand has been the “Taser” manufactured by Axon Enterprise, Incorporated (Axon). In 2018, the Police Department upgraded the taser equipment to the Axon Taser X26 model. The current devices are now out of warranty, no longer manufactured by Axon, and have been replaced by the newer Taser- 10 model. The Taser-10 offers several advancements, including an extended effective range of up to 45 feet, which is nearly double that of the current Taser X26, giving officers more time and distance during critical situations. The new multi-probe cartridge allows for single probe deployment, greater accuracy, and the ability to address more than one suspect if needed. The updated technology also reduces voltage during deployment, improving safety. Axon has been producing Tasers for more than 30 years and is considered an industry standard. Axon’s systems integrate with the Police Department’s body worn cameras, incorporate data-based accountability features, and emphasize safety. Staff recommends the City Council enter into a five-year Contract Services Agreement with Axon Enterprise, Incorporated, for a sole-source purchase not-to-exceed amount of $159,250.88, for the new Taser-10 model, with deployment anticipated in February 2026.
Strategic Plan Goal(s):
Goal No. 2 Community Safety: Maintain community safety by supporting public safety services and increasing emergency preparedness.
recommendation
Recommendation:
1. Authorize the City Manager to enter into a Contract Services Agreement with Axon Enterprise, Incorporated, in the amount of $159,250.88 for a 5-year term, for the Signal Hill Police Department taser equipment.
2. Approve the procurement as a sole-source contract, pursuant to the Signal Hill Municipal Code Section 3.20.120; based on the need for compatibility with existing body-worn camera systems and authorize the City Manager, or designee, to execute the purchase order or contract in accordance with the City’s purchasing guidelines.
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Fiscal Impact:
The total cost for 32 Taser 10 devices is $159,250.88. This proposed expense is funded by the approved FY 2025-26 budget, which allocated $160,000 for taser replacement in the Capital Outlay account 100-72-5840. The total cost reflects a credit of $21,919.77 for returned used equipment.
Background:
The Signal Hill Police Department began using Tasers in patrol operations about 20 years ago and today, all officers are issued a Taser as standard equipment. The taser provides a less-lethal force option. In 2018, sworn personnel received training on the safe operation and use of the Axon Taser X26 model and additional training is provided annually. Advancements in technology have rendered the Taser X26 obsolete and, as a result, have been out of warranty since March 2023.
Analysis:
Axon developed the Taser-10 in 2023 as a next-generation device. The Taser-10 has several advantages over the current model. The Taser X26 had an effective range of 21 to 25 feet, while the Taser-10 extends this range to 45 feet. This increased range provides Police Officers more time to make critical decisions when community safety is at risk. The Taser 10 features a multi-probe cartridge, allowing officers to address multiple threats in hostile situations. The new design enables controlled probe placement for more effective outcomes when needed. The multi-probe cartridge also reduces the need for frequent reloading, which is especially important when managing potentially violent crowds. The Taser-10 also integrates with officers’ body-worn cameras, which automatically begin recording when the device is armed or discharged. The new features enhance accountability and accuracy in documenting critical incidents. Additionally, the improved probe design reduces the likelihood of suspects intentionally removing the probes, allowing officers to safely take individuals into custody without repeated deployments.
Sole-Source Justification:
Staff determined that the purchase of the Axon Taser-10 qualifies as a sole-source procurement based on its unique and exclusive integration with the Police Department’s existing Axon body-worn cameras. The Taser-10 utilizes advanced technology, which allows for seamless functionality between the taser and existing body-worn camera systems and is not available from any other manufacturer. The combination of the multi-probe system and data-driven accountability tools, all while ensuring compatibility with current equipment, can be replicated with this level of integration and functionality by any other device. The Taser-10 is exclusively available from Axon; no other manufacturer currently offers a comparable device with the same multi-probe system, body-worn camera integration, and data-driven accountability tools.
Pursuant to the Signal Hill Municipal Code Section 3.20.120, Exceptions to the Procurement Methods, a sole-source purchase may be authorized when the City Council or City Manager determines that only one vendor can provide the required goods or services, or when the procurement from a single source is necessary to ensure compatibility with existing City systems, products, or equipment. As noted, the Axon Taser-10 is the only product that meets the City’s operational, technological, and compatibility requirements; therefore, the procurement through a sole-source process is in the best interest of the City. The sole source approach ensures continuity between the City’s current Axon systems and future deployments, maintains system reliability, and supports officer accountability and public safety objectives.
Recommendation:
Staff recommends awarding a contract to Axon Enterprise, Incorporated for the purchase of the upgraded taser technology at a total cost of $159,250.88. The approved Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Operating Budget includes $160,000 for taser replacement costs. The proposed purchase includes a 5-year extended warranty, support for staff inquiries, and access to expert witness representation from Axon. The Police Department currently has two certified Range Team instructors who can train sworn personnel on the use and proper deployment of the Taser-10. Subject to the City Council’s approval, staff would proceed with scheduling and conducting training for all sworn personnel in January 2026; full deployment of the Taser 10 would begin in February 2026.
Reviewed for Fiscal Impact:
_________________________
Siamlu Cox
Administrative Services Officer/Finance Director
Attachment:
A. Axon Enterprise, Incorporated Agreement