Committee postpones vote on Axon services consolidation over unclear savings claim

Members of the Ulster County Public Works and Design Projects Committee voted May 11 to postpone Resolution 184, a proposed amendment to the 2026 Ulster County operating budget consolidating multiple contracts for Axon services, after questioning the claimed savings.

The chair introduced the resolution and said the materials indicated the consolidation would save $141,810. Several legislators sought a clear administrative explanation of the math and noted an amendment in the packet appeared to change the line-item treatment of savings and appropriations. One committee member said the paperwork now showed increases in overall appropriations, making the claimed savings unclear.

Legislator Berardi asked how the resolution produced the stated savings; the chair and TJ (committee staff) acknowledged the amendment altered some numbered lines. Legislator Stewart and others noted no administration representative was present to walk through the figures, and several members favored postponing until up-to-date numbers could be provided. Legislator Kovacs moved to postpone the resolution; Legislator Donaldson seconded and the committee voted to postpone.

The committee’s action delays a consolidated contract vote so staff can supply current figures and a clearer reconciliation of how the consolidation affects appropriations. Chair Nolan said the resolution will return after the administration provides an updated version with the figures clarified.

What’s next: administration will supply updated financial detail for Resolution 184 before the committee reconvenes consideration.