The Corcoran City Council convened a work session on September 24, 2026, to discuss a significant technology modernization program for the Corcoran Police Department. The proposed initiative, spanning a decade and estimated at $1.45 million, aims to replace aging hardware and introduce advanced AI-integrated systems to enhance public safety capabilities.

Staff presented a comprehensive plan identifying Axon as the preferred vendor for the program. The contract would encompass a suite of modern tools, including updated body-worn cameras, squad car cameras, License Plate Recognition (LPR) technology, and various artificial intelligence tools. Funding for the ambitious program is structured around a subscription-based model, designed to ensure continuous access to the latest technology without substantial upfront capital outlays.

Deputy Director of Public Safety Ryan Burns, who prepared the staff report for the Corcoran Police Technology Program, served as the primary contact for the presentation. The program is specifically designed as an 'evergreen' contract, meaning it would adapt and upgrade over its 10-year term, allowing the department to stay current with technological advancements as they emerge.

The core of the modernization plan centers on upgrading essential equipment used by police officers daily. Body-worn cameras and squad cameras are critical for evidence collection, officer accountability, and community trust. The addition of LPRs would provide law enforcement with automated tools to identify vehicles associated with criminal activity, missing persons, or other investigations more efficiently. The integration of AI tools is anticipated to streamline data analysis, improve incident response, and provide predictive insights, all while adhering to established protocols and privacy standards.