Facilities committee forwards camera replacement proposals; former facilities director recommended Connecticut Computer Service

Principal Josh Torchia presented a memo to Superintendent Brian White and the facilities committee outlining a multi-year RFP process to replace an aging camera system identified during FY 25-26 budget development. The memo notes the RFP bids were opened Aug. 21, 2025 at the Region 4 central office and that the facilities director would review bids and recommend which company should be awarded the contract.

Fred Gerber, the former Region 4/Chester/Deep River/Essex facilities director, is cited in the memo as recommending a Verkada camera system because it would unify district camera systems and, according to the memo, "improve emergency response and crisis management" as recommended by local law enforcement. Later, in a Sept. 23 memo, Gerber recommended selecting Connecticut Computer Service (including Alternate 1), stating that the company submitted the lowest total cost and is a trusted district vendor.