In response to Councilmember Hampton's inquiry regarding agreements with neighboring cities to use the same brand of devices, Philip Leclair, Chief Information Officer, reported that the City's communication infrastructure is deeply integrated with Motorola systems, which also includes a regional connected Interagency Communications Interoperability (ICI) System where all neighboring cities use Motorola communication equipment. He emphasized that interagency standardization is critical for emergency responses and interagency operability.
Councilmember Hampton requested City staff conduct a more in-depth analysis of the contract and proposed that the item return to the City Council at the next regular meeting.
Mayor Gordo expressed concerns regarding the cost and feasibility of transitioning away from Motorola.
Councilmember Madison expressed support for tabling the item while cautioning against over scrutinizing vendors based on associations, noting that this could lead to impractical standards for procurement and set a precedent where routine or previously approved contractual add-ons are repeatedly reevaluated. He also noted that no questions were raised about the proposed contract prior to the meeting, despite established City Council guidelines and practices to vet such matters with City staff in advance of meetings.
In response to Councilmember Madison’s inquiry regarding potential impacts of delaying the proposed contract, Chief Information Officer Leclair reported that service and emergency communications from the Police Department would not be impacted by a 3-week delay of approval of the item.
Mayor Gordo expressed support for a discussion with other regional agencies to explore reducing reliance on Motorola products and fostering a more competitive market among alternative providers.
It was moved by Councilmember Cole, seconded by Councilmember Hampton, to table the item and direct City staff to conduct a more in-depth analysis of the contract and return with additional information at the May 4, 2026 City Council meeting. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: None)