Submitted By: Christopher Ramos
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Presentation By: Christopher Ramos
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Department: Information Technology

STAFF RECOMMENDATION (Motion Ready):
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Approve the annual renewal for the Service and Maintenance Agreement for video surveillance and access control systems with Morse Communications in an estimated amount of $112,206
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OCALA’S RELEVANT STRATEGIC GOALS:
Operational Excellence, Quality of Place

PROOF OF PUBLICATION:
N/A

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BACKGROUND:
The City of Ocala utilizes cameras, physical access control devices, and alarms to secure and monitor locations, buildings, and personnel. These physical security systems protect assets, ensure individuals' safety, maintain operations' integrity, and solve crimes. Implementing and maintaining these systems helps prevent unauthorized access, detect potential threats, and respond promptly to incidents, enhancing the City's overall security and operational efficiency.
In January 2022, Morse Communications was approved to supply standardized equipment and software related to the City’s physical security infrastructure. Identification of certain information relating to the City’s critical infrastructure is confidential and exempt from disclosure under section 119.07(1) and s. 24(a), Art. I of the State Constitution by section 119.0725, Florida Statutes. Disclosure of such information could facilitate unauthorized access to or unauthorized modification, disclosure, or destruction of Information Technology Resources. For this reason, Morse Communications has served as the vendor providing support for the vast array of physical security equipment that spans multiple locations and publicly and City-owned areas since that time.
FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS:
The service agreement includes several key provisions:
• 24/7/365, four-hour response to major system failures and Next Business Day response for minor failures during weekdays.
• All parts and labor included for equipment, along with quarterly maintenance, cleaning, and focusing of all equipment.
• Web and 800# ticket reporting and tracking, reduced rates on system expansion, assigned technicians, major software upgrades, and priority cameras stocked in-house for emergency service.
• Priority cameras will be stocked in-house for Emergency Service
Morse's video surveillance and access control systems enable staff to effectively monitor, secure, and protect City buildings, public spaces, and essential equipment. The Ocala Police Department frequently relies on these surveillance cameras to aid in crime resolution. Given the current and expanding scope of these systems, we require assistance from Morse Communications to ensure all hardware remains operational.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Funds for the renewal are budgeted in account strings 001-035-214-529-52-46010 and 001-018-214-521-52-46010 and will be paid under Munis Contract No. 250497
PROCUREMENT REVIEW:
These services were procured in compliance with the City’s Procurement Policy.
LEGAL REVIEW:
This Agreement will be reviewed and approved for form and legality by City Attorney, William E. Sexton.
ALTERNATIVE:
• Approve with Changes
• Table
• Deny