Steele County commissioners voted Sept. 9 to approve a purchase contract with Axon for new tasers and body-worn cameras after staff said existing equipment was out of warranty.
The county will buy two body cameras and two tasers under a quote totaling $23,546.40; a Department of Justice grant of $6,000 was reported as available to reduce the county’s upfront cost to about $17,546.40. Commissioners approved a motion to accept the contract and the county will consider a five-year payment plan that staff said carries equal annual payments of $4,709.28 with no added finance charge.
Why it matters: county officials said several of the sheriff’s office devices are five to seven years old, out of warranty and failing in the field; replacing them would restore covered warranty and storage services and ensure taser recertification is included in the vendor service contract.
County staff told commissioners the vendor’s service package includes warranties, storage for footage and periodic camera replacements. Commissioners discussed timing of the DOJ match and whether the grant requires an immediate lump-sum payment; staff advised the grant must be paid all at once and that the grant expires this year.
The commission moved, seconded and voted to approve the contract. Commissioner Strand made the motion; Commissioner Chris seconded. The board voted in favor and the motion carried.
Next steps: staff will execute the purchase and start the vendor’s service plan; commissioners indicated they expect to account for ongoing renewal costs when the initial five-year period ends.