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High Springs approves $100,000 drone replacement via FDLE grant and selects recommended vendor
Summary
The commission accepted staff recommendation to use a FDLE grant to replace police drone equipment and approved a vendor (listed in packet as 'Skyo'); staff said the grant covers equipment and included training, with no local match or ongoing maintenance obligations required by the grant.
The City Commission approved the High Springs Police Department’s staff recommendation to accept a Florida Department of Law Enforcement grant and proceed with the procurement package presented in the packet.
Staff said the department secured approximately $100,000 earmarked for replacement of drone equipment; the grant covers equipment and associated training and does not require a local match. Staff described operational benefits including locating missing children or vulnerable adults, aerial observation during large events, and assisting in suspect location or pursuit. The department currently has three FAA‑certified officers and plans to keep outdated donated drones in service for the fire department’s non‑law‑enforcement uses.
Commissioners asked about Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 107 compliance, insurance, data retention and evidence‑handling costs; staff said the program meets required standards, the current model stores recordings on SD cards that can be extracted for evidence, and the grant‑funded purchase does not create recurring operational costs. One vendor in the packet listed a cloud‑service option with a 12‑month term; staff advised that option is not required and the department’s mobile internet would cover operational needs.
On the procurement recommendation—staff named the preferred vendor in the bid packet (transcript spelling: "Skyo")—the commission moved to accept the recommendation and approved the purchase. Staff said the replacement is for multiple drone units and includes training; officers will not pay for required certification out of pocket going forward.
