Drone as First Responder Program

The City of Palm Desert, in partnership with neighboring cities via the Cove Communities Services Commission, seeks a qualified vendor to design, supply, integrate, and maintain a comprehensive Drone‑as‑First‑Responder (DFR) system for public‑safety operations. The three‑year professional services agreement (with optional two‑year extensions) will cover hardware (U.S.‑made drones, docking stations, batteries, cameras, sensors), software (mission management, secure video streaming, data storage, evidence handling), integration with existing law‑enforcement and emergency‑response platforms, training, ongoing maintenance, cybersecurity, regulatory compliance, and a public‑transparency portal. The solution must meet FAA Part 107, FCC, state privacy, and California public‑safety requirements and be fully interoperable with Riverside County Sheriff’s Office systems. • Provide all drone aircraft, docking infrastructure, and supporting equipment (U.S.‑manufactured) • Deliver mission‑control software with live video, mapping, geofencing, audit logs, and user management • Ensure seamless integration with CAD, RMS, evidence‑management, and Real‑Time Intelligence Center systems • Offer secure cloud storage, data‑retention controls, chain‑of‑custody, and compliance with public‑records laws • Develop a public‑facing transparency portal showing flight data and mission summaries • Conduct system design, site assessments, installation, testing, and full program launch support • Provide comprehensive training for pilots, supervisors, and evidence‑management staff • Supply ongoing technical support, software updates, cybersecurity patches, warranty service, and a technology‑refresh plan for the contract term