Discuss, consider, and take appropriate action on approving a purchase with Election Systems and Software, LLC (ES&S) for the DS950 High-Speed Scanner and Tabulator in the amount of $146,770.00, and exempting the purchase from competitive bidding under Texas Local Government Code 262.024(a)(7)(D); captive replacement parts or components for equipment, and authorizing the execution of the Contract.

Staff Report & Agenda Item Details

Discuss, consider, and take appropriate action on approving a purchase with Election Systems and Software, LLC (ES&S) for the DS950 High-Speed Scanner and Tabulator in the amount of $146,770.00, and exempting the purchase from competitive bidding under Texas Local Government Code 262.024(a)(7)(D); captive replacement parts or components for equipment, and authorizing the execution of the Contract. Funding for this purchase will come from two sources, 01.0378.0378.005742 for FY26, and Grant 536P, Task 3.1, Award Code 536A. The Elections Office requires a high-speed central count scanner and tabulator to process ballots efficiently, accurately, and in compliance with state and federal election requirements. The equipment must integrate with the County’s existing voting system to ensure continuity of operations, maintain certification, and support established election workflows. The DS950 High-Speed Scanner and Tabulator is a certified component of the ES&S EVS 6300 voting system currently utilized by the County, ensuring full compatibility with existing ES&S hardware and software, including ElectionWare.

This motion is scored as EXPANDS_GOVERNMENT (Impact Weight: 5.0/10). Under the Bastiat Liberty Watchdog Index, measures that increase tax rates or fee schedules, issue new debt or Certificates of Obligation, expand regulatory/zoning restrictions on private land use, or authorize unbudgeted spending expansions reduce an official's Freedom Score when voted YES (and reward dissenting NO votes).