Recommend approval to authorize the City Manager to renew an annual contract with Taser International for Taser devices in the amount of $219,280.  The Taser devices will be used by the Savannah Police Department (SPD) for the outfitting of patrol officers with a less-lethal device, as well as upgrade our current supply of Taser devices.

The SPD has 200 Taser X-2 devices currently in service. The Taser X-2 has been in service within the SPD for the past 5 years and is used as a less-lethal tool to minimize force and gain control of actively resistant/combative subjects. The acquisition of additional devices as well as the continuation of our current Taser program supports the City of Savannah's efforts to provide its officers the necessary tools to effectively protect the community. Executing this contract would provide 200 new X2 devices to replace SPD's current inventory, and add 70 new devices to the inventory, including APPM batteries, holsters and 550 cartridges. All 270 weapons would be covered under warranty for five years.  This is a sole source because the City has standardized this equipment, and it is only available from this supplier.

Approval