Committee approves renewal and backfill for Axon body‑worn cameras and in‑car video system

The Baldwin Park Stakeholders Oversight Committee approved a staff request on May 12 to renew the Axon body‑worn camera and in‑car video system contract for fiscal years 2026 through 2031 and to backfill the council‑chambers construction allocation so ARPA funds (which expire this year) can cover the purchase.

Staff presented the contract cost as approximately $720,612.84 for a five‑year renewal; they said earlier ARPA spending financed the program since 2021 but ARPA deadlines now require creative fund management. "We are taking funds from the remodeling of the council chambers to pay for this expenditure," the presenting staff member said, and asked the committee to consider using Measure BP to backfill the council‑chambers allocation.

A public‑safety presenter described the system’s operational benefits, saying body‑worn cameras increase transparency and protect officers and residents and that the department currently outfits 67 officers and 23 vehicles. "There’s no better proof than what actually occurred in front of [officers]," the presenter said, arguing the recorded video helps both prosecutions and defense in criminal proceedings.

Members asked technical and warranty questions; staff said Axon provides warranty replacement and that the five‑year contract would maintain existing technology through 2031. Member Orosco moved the item; Member Hernandez seconded. Roll‑call votes were recorded in favor by Member Hernandez, Member Orosco, Vice Chair Jackson and Chair Lara. The motion carried 4‑0.