Title
Sheriff’s Office recommending the Board:
1) Make findings pursuant to Section 3.4 (2) of Board Policy C-17 - Procurement that it is appropriate to make a purchase with AeroVironment Inc. as they are the only vendor able to provide Telemax robot-updated equipment and accessories; and
2) Authorize the Purchasing Agent to execute a Purchase Order with AeroVironment Inc., contingent upon approval from County Counsel and Risk Management, for the purchase of Telemax robot-updated equipment and accessories for the amount of $500,000.
FUNDING: Special Revenue Funds.
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DISCUSSION / BACKGROUND
The Sheriff’s Office Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit relies on specialized robotic equipment to remotely access, assess, and mitigate hazardous situations involving suspicious packages, explosive devices, and other potentially dangerous incidents. The EOD robot is a critical public-safety asset that minimizes the need for personnel to enter hazardous environments, thereby enhancing the safety of staff, first responders, and the public. Due to the age, operational wear, and increasing maintenance needs of the current system, the Sheriff’s Office now requires the purchase of a new EOD robot to ensure continued safe and effective response capabilities.
AeroVironment Inc. is the sole provider of the proprietary replacement parts, accessories, software, maintenance, and repair services required to operate and sustain the EOD robot.
The Telemax robot is designed to support responses to potential explosive threats and assist in other tactical missions. Its primary role is to evaluate situations without placing Sheriff’s Office personnel at unnecessary risk. Each update or accessory added to the robot expands its capabilities and further reduces direct human exposure during potentially life-threatening operations. Purchasing a new robot will ensure the EOD Unit maintains these capabilities at modern performance standards and addresses emerging operational requirements...
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