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SHERIFF / PURCHASING - Sheriff Dave Kain
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Requested Action(s)
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a) TRANSFER OF FUNDS: SHERIFF, B-8 - From Public Safety (106-301900), to Contingency (2002-59000), $93,168.36; and From Contingency (2002-59000), to Vehicles (2027-57605), $93,168.36 (Requires a 4/5’s vote)
b) BID WAIVER:
1) Request to adopt the finding that purchasing undercover vehicles from Corning Ford, allows the County to take advantage of current available vehicles without the time and expense involved with conducting a formal bid process and will maintain the integrity of undercover operations.
2) Request to find it in the best interest of the County to waive the formal bid process for the acquisition of (3) three undercover vehicles based on the finding
c) Request authorization for the Purchasing Agent to sign a purchase order to Corning Ford for the acquisition of the (3) undisclosed vehicles in the amount of $93,168.36
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Financial Impact:
There is no financial impact on the general fund, as AB443 funds will be utilized for the purchase of these vehicles. The Board of State and Community Corrections (BSCC) 1222-23 Grant will reimburse the Sheriff’s Office (AB443 fund) in the amount of $93,168.36, once these vehicles are acquired and purchased.
Background Information:
The Sheriff’s Office is requesting approval to purchase three used undercover vehicles from Corning Ford to support ongoing and future covert investigations, including narcotics enforcement and surveillance operations. These vehicles are essential tools that enable detectives to conduct operations without detection and with a reduced risk to officer safety.
Due to the specialized nature of undercover vehicles, including the need for them to blend in with civilian traffic, the specifications are highly specific and sensitive. A formal bid process would require public disclosure of vehicle details, which could compromise the integrity of investigations and put personnel at risk.
In addition, the vehicles identified at Corning Ford are currently available and meet all operational requirements, including price, condition, and suitability. Given the time-sensitive nature of the investigations and the unpredictability of vehicle availability, delaying the purchase to conduct a formal bidding process would not be practical or in the County’s best interest.
County procurement policy allows for waiving the formal bid process when it is determined that such a waiver serves the public interest, particularly in the case of law enforcement needs where confidentiality and timeliness are paramount.