Fargo approves 10‑year renewal with Axon for body cameras, evidence platform and limited drone use

FARGO — The Fargo City Commission voted to renew a 10‑year contract with Axon that will keep the city’s integrated evidence platform — body‑worn cameras, in‑car video and digital evidence management — and add three drones intended for priority responses and VR training for de‑escalation.

Police leaders and procurement staff told the commission that executing the agreement by Dec. 31 would secure 2025 pricing and protect the city from a substantial 2026 price increase. The presentation said the public safety sales tax would cover years two through six at $1,000,000 annually and that the city estimates roughly $8.6 million in savings over the 10‑year term compared with renewing on shorter terms.

Assistant Chief (public safety) described the operational benefits: “The fully integrated body worn systems, in car video, digital evidence, all of that, in 1 bundle creates a number of efficiencies for us,” and said drones would be used for high‑priority calls to provide thermal imaging and scene awareness before officers arrive.

Commissioners asked about privacy and staffing. The assistant chief addressed Fourth Amendment concerns, saying the department uses policies and safeguards and that drone deployment would focus on public scenes, not “looking into windows or private areas.” On staffing, police leaders said use of the Real Time Crime Center staff and Axon‑provided training are built into the plan and that the public safety sales tax included funding for personnel increases.

Opponents questioned the 10‑year term given the city’s recent Moody’s downgrade. One commissioner said a shorter renewal would better match expected city leadership changes and fiscal uncertainty. Supporters said longer terms were necessary to achieve the vendor price concessions and long‑term savings.

The commission approved the motion by roll call (majority yes, minority no).