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Commission approves agreement to reserve a fixed-wing first-responder drone, staff says buying early locks price
Summary
The commission approved a procurement agreement with Axon Enterprises for a Skydio fixed-wing drone as a first-responder platform; staff said the city is securing a spot on an early-delivery list and locking current pricing, though delivery is projected around 2028 and the product is still in development.
The commission approved a resolution to enter into an agreement with Axon Enterprises for purchase, deployment, training, software licensing and maintenance of a fixed-wing drone system (Skydio F10) intended for first-responder use.
Supporters at the podium called the program "the 21st century of what the old police helicopters used to be." Resident Steven Hirsch said the drone could significantly improve officer safety and reduce unnecessary responses. "It would immediately be able to broadcast video to our police officers," he said, describing potential mission benefits. Staff told commissioners the procurement places Sunny Isles Beach among the first municipalities to receive the platform when it is market-ready; staff estimated delivery availability in 2028 but said locking the price today could save the city about $900,000.
Commissioners raised procedural questions about approving a high-cost item for a product still in development and about vendor representation; staff pointed to a termination clause (section 16.2) that allows the city to cancel if funds are not appropriated later. After discussion the commission approved the agreement.
