Title
Purchase Vantage F3 Robot - EXC 21-118 (Ordinance S-47669)
Description
Request to authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to enter into a contract with Transcend Robotics Inc. to purchase one Vantage V3 Robot for the Police Department. Further request an exception to Phoenix City Code 42-18 for Limitation of Liability and Indemnification. Transcend Robotics Inc. and City agree that liability is to be limited to $2,000,000 as negotiated. Also, request authorization for the City Controller to disburse all funds related to this item. The aggregate contract value will not exceed $18,794.
Report
Summary
The Special Assignments Unit is responsible for handling all violent and potentially violent incidents, particularly involving barricaded subjects. Often, armed subjects barricade and hide inside structures and fail to comply with officers' commands to surrender. Use of the Vantage robot will help locate, communicate, and disarm these suspects. This robot is essential because it will help officers provide maximum safety for both suspects and the public. The Vantage F3 Robot provides a safe means of communication with subjects that are barricaded by using its two-way communications system. Pricing includes the robot, controller unit, controller & accessory transport case, robot battery, small batteries, chargers, backpack, boosters and a High Gain Antenna (HGA) Antenna. This booster HGA antenna allows the use of the robot at extended distances.
Procurement Information
In accordance with Administrative Regulation 3.10, normal competition was waived as a result of an approved Determination Memo which stated the Special Assignments Unit has used different robots in the past and found that many of them fail due to distances, mechanical failures, cannot navigate stairs or through the debris. This Vantage Tactical F3 robot and accessories is the only tool that defeats those issues. Transcend Tactical is the only manufacturer of this robot. This robot was chosen based on its mission capabilities, to include an accessory kit and HGA antenna.
The Deputy Finance Director recommends that the contract with Transcend Robotics Inc. be accepted.
Contract Term
Contract term is for one year beginning on or about June 16, 2021.
Financial Impact
The aggregate contract value will not exceed $18,794. Funds are available in the Police Department’s budget.
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Assistant City Manager Jeff Barton and the Police Department.