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Albany County tables electronic-monitoring contract after concerns about a price-adjustment clause
Summary
The board tabled a proposed SCRAM Systems contract for electronic monitoring after commissioners questioned a provision allowing price increases tied to the consumer price index up to 20%, and asked staff to review alternatives and return with recommendations.
A proposed contract with SCRAM Systems for electronic monitoring of adult drug-court participants was tabled Oct. 7 after commissioners raised concerns about a contract clause that would allow annual price adjustments tied to the consumer price index for up to a 20 percent increase.
Staff described the county’s current monitoring tools (GPS and alcohol-detection units) and said the proposed contract continues a long-term relationship with the vendor. A commissioner asked whether staff had negotiated the price-adjustment clause; staff said they had not and asked for more time to research whether the clause is standard and to explore alternatives.
Because the potential maximum increase prompted concern over cost escalation, the board moved to table the SCRAM contract until the next meeting so staff can return with more information. Staff noted the current contract remains valid through November, allowing time for review.
Commissioners directed staff to check prior pricing history with the vendor and consider whether a capped annual increase or alternative contract language is preferable before bringing the contract back for a vote.
