TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: William Evans, Chief of Police
SUBJECT:
title
Approve the Purchase of Pole and Through Wall Camera Kits for SOS from Strack in the Amount of $34,729.57
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BACKGROUND:
The Joliet Police Special Operations Squad (SOS) needs advanced intelligence-gathering pole and camera wall kits to enhance officer safety, improve situational awareness, and minimize the risk of force during high-risk operations. Current equipment is outdated or lacks critical capabilities, such as thermal imaging and remote viewing, forcing operators into potentially dangerous positions. Enhanced surveillance tools will allow officers to detect threats, assess environments, and gather intelligence without exposing themselves or escalating situations. These capabilities are especially crucial in low-light environments, confined spaces, and crisis situations like hostage incidents, where real-time visual confirmation is essential for effective decision-making. Upgrading to modern technology will significantly improve operational efficiency, officer safety, and overall mission success.
This item was reviewed at the Public Safety Committee Meeting held on March 31, 2025, and recommended to the full Council for approval.
CONCLUSION:
The police department received three (3) quotes for Pole and Through Wall Camera Kits for the Police Department Special Operations Squad. The quotes are as follows:
Vendors Total Price
Strack $ 34,729.57
Aardvark $ 35,323.63
Tactical Electronics $ 35,801.17
Strack is the lowest quote, at $34,729.57
Section 2-438 of the City of Joliet Code of Ordinances states that purchases over $25,000.00 may be awarded without written specifications or bidding under certain circumstances. Two of these circumstances apply:
(c) Purchases of equipment which, by reason of training of City personnel or an inventory...
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