Council approves fire department standardization of Knox products to replace aging narcotics safes

The Glendale City Council on July 1 approved a resolution authorizing the city to standardize on Knox Corporation products for narcotics safes and related procurement, and to dispense with competitive bidding for that procurement.

Fire Chief Brooks told the council the department's narcotics safes reached the end of their service life and the previous vendor no longer provides software updates needed to meet DEA and Department of Homeland Security storage requirements. "We've tested them extensively over the last year on three different apparatus. They meet all DEA and DHS regulations," Chief Brooks said while presenting the item.

The resolution authorizes the deputy director of finance/purchasing to procure Knox hardware, software, parts, maintenance and services as the city standard. The council approved the action on a roll call; the clerk recorded unanimous consent on the item as presented.

One public commenter, Beth Brooks, was noted on the record but did not raise objections that changed the staff recommendation. The council recorded yes votes for the item and moved to the next agenda matter.

Next steps: The finance/purchasing office will proceed with procurement of Knox products and related services under the authority granted by the resolution. Staff noted the change is needed to remain compliant with federal storage and tracking requirements for controlled substances.