TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Chris Sternal, Director of IT
SUBJECT:
title
Award of Contract to Heartland Business Systems for the Implementation of Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) and Three Years of ISE Subscription and Support in the Amount of $165,341.57
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BACKGROUND:
Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) is an advanced network security platform that enables the City to manage and control access to its network infrastructure. By verifying the identity of users and devices-whether connecting through wired, wireless, or remote VPN access-ISE ensures that only authorized individuals and equipment can access City of Joliet systems. This implementation will provide a unified, policy-driven approach to network access, enhancing both security and operational efficiency across all departments.
CONCLUSION:
Deploying Cisco ISE will enhance the City’s network security by enforcing centralized access policies, improving visibility, and supporting a zero-trust architecture. This investment will protect city systems from unauthorized access and streamline IT operations. The cost breakdown is as follows:
One-Time Fees
Item |
Cost |
Notes |
Cisco Small Secure Network Servers |
$28,447.48 |
One-time hardware cost |
HBS Implementation Services |
$96,077.50 |
Includes engineering, PM, and training |
Annual Costs
Year |
Item |
Cost |
2025 |
Cisco ISE Subscription & Support |
$13,605.53 |
2026 |
Cisco ISE Subscription & Support |
$13,605.53 |
2027 |
Cisco ISE Subscription & Support |
$13,605.53 |
| Total Estimated Cost | | $165,341.57 |
This item was recommended for City Council approval by the Communication, Technology and Information Systems Committee at the October 1, 2025 meeting.
Section 2-438 of the City of Joliet Code of Ordinances states that purchases whose estimated cost is in excess of twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000.00) may be awarded without written specifications or bidding under certain circumstances. Two of these circumstances apply:
(f) Purchases when authorized by a concurring vote of two-thirds of the Mayor and City Council;
(g) Purchases of professional services.
Sufficient Funds exist utilizing the Information Technology Professional Services budget (Org 04001000, Object 523300, $165,341.57 )
RECOMMENDATION:
recommendation
Based on the above, it is recommended that the Mayor and City Council award a contract to Heartland Business Systems for the implementation of Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) and three years of ISE subscription and support in the Amount of $165,341.57.
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