San Benito commissioners voted Oct. 21 to approve a citywide TimeClock Plus time-and-attendance upgrade that uses biometrics and geofencing, while rejecting a separate proposal to buy a unified access-control and video platform proposed by ProTech AV.

The time-clock purchase was characterized by staff as a necessary replacement for aging equipment and as a way to improve accountability and security. Human Resources Director Christine Castillo told the commission the implementation will occur in phases and that staff expect a February go-live for the new system. “There’s phases as well. There’s implementation, so we’re looking [at] going live in February,” Castillo said.

Staff said the TimeClock Plus (TCP) contract replaces unreliable terminals across about a dozen city buildings, adds geofencing and a phone-based clock-in option, and integrates photo verification to reduce “buddy punching.” Sarah Salazar, a TCP representative, described geofencing and IP restrictions that limit remote clock-ins and said the system can be configured differently for field crews and building-based staff.

Commissioners then debated a separate proposal from ProTech AV to implement a Genetec-based unified access-control and video platform across all city buildings and existing cameras. ProTech’s Calvin Womack and Genetec representatives described the platform’s capabilities — camera and door consolidation, analytics, long-term video storage (staff proposed 180 days), and integration options for future expansion.

Opponents raised concerns about system cost, ongoing monthly payments and local broadband capacity. The proposal included a financing option with monthly installments of $9,779.40 over 30 months; staff also presented a cash-purchase alternative. Several commissioners said they preferred starting with a smaller, limited trial or a one-year agreement to test integration and bandwidth implications before committing to a long-term arrangement. One commissioner asked for a proof-of-concept limited to City Hall or a specific set of doors and cameras.

After discussion the commission considered a motion to approve the ProTech/Genetec proposal on the financing terms presented; the motion received a second but the motion failed (three no votes). Later in the meeting the commission approved the TimeClock Plus contract. Staff described the time-clock purchase price as $48,875.53 for a 60‑month term and noted phased implementation and training for staff.

Ending: City staff said they will proceed with TimeClock Plus implementation and promised training and configuration for departmental needs. Commissioners asked staff to return with options for a limited access-control pilot or a shorter-term agreement for further evaluation.