Several models of our current wireless access points have reached end of vendor support and the remaining models will be ending shortly. Our current system was installed in conjunction with the construction of the Community Center, Ice Arena, and City Hall. Outdated hardware is not able to be patched by vendor software and can create an insecure environment for the entire network.

Employees, residents, visitors, vendors, and many electronic devices are reliant on wireless access in city buildings to perform critical tasks. It is heavily used in City Hall, Public Works, PD, fire stations, Ice Arena, and the Community Center. We currently use and need to replace 40 access points and software. 

Several months ago, IT installed 7 test access points in several buildings to evaluate this new system. The results have been a great improvement in speed and connectivity and IT is recommending we move to this new access point and software.

IT has planned and budgeted $70,000 in 2024 to replace all 40 access points in all our buildings. The attached quote is for 33 access points for $51,429.18. We would also be billed approximately $12,500 for the 7 new access points installed from the testing phase with the same pricing per unit. An estimated $1,000 for software and network configuration is included and fits under our budgeted request. The remaining funds in the budgeted amount are for any unforeseen contingencies. Shakopee IT will be performing all the physical installations which saves significant additional costs for this type of project. Quoted dollar amounts are under the State of Minnesota Contract Pricing 147097.

Future replacements are expected in 5-7 years which is typically determined by vendors announced end of life support dates, software upgrade availability, and security patches.