Report Prepared by Lance Eber, Crime Analyst, Police Department
Title
SUBJECT: Approve the Purchase of Bulletproof Vests from Angel Armor Using Grant Funds from the United States Department of Justice Bulletproof Vest Program (BVP) and Measure C for a not to Exceed Amount of $61,830.40
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers Staff's request to waive the City's competitive bidding requirement pursuant to Merced Municipal Code section 3.04.210 for purchases necessary to standardize specific types of equipment and approve the purchase of bulletproof vests with Angel Armor.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Approving to waive the City's competitive bidding requirements as stated in Section 3.04.210 of the Merced Municipal Code for standardization of specific equipment; and,
B. Approving the purchase of bulletproof vests from Angel Armor not-to-exceed $61,830.40.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve as recommended by staff; or
2. Refer back to staff with direction; or
3. Continue to a subsequent meeting; or
4. Take no action
AUTHORITY
Article II and III of Title 3, Chapter 3.04, of the Merced Municipal Code relating to purchases of equipment and services (Section 3.04.080 and 3.04.120) and waiving of the competitive bidding requirements (Section 3.04.210).
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
Public Safety Priority - Traffic Solutions & Safety and as provided in the FY 2026/27 Adopted Budget.
DISCUSSION
The Merced Police Department (MPD) is currently using Angel Armor for the purchase of bulletproof vests. In 2024, Angel Armor was selected as the vendor after a competitive bidding process was completed. Over seventy vests have been purchased since 2024 using this vendor. Continuing to purchase from the vendor allows for a standardization of equipment among all officers in the department.
The City is required to provide bulletproof vests to all police officers. The MPD budget accounts for regular replacement of vests as part of its annual budget. The funds will...
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