Posting Language
Title
Authorize a contract for firearm and toolmark examiner training services for the Forensic Science Department with Nichols Forensic Science Consulting, Inc., for a total contract amount not to exceed $81,050. Funding: $81,050 is available in the Forensic Science Department’s Operating Budget.
Body
Lead Department
Financial Services Department.
Client Department(s)
Forensic Science Department.
Fiscal Note
Funding in the amount of $81,050 is available in the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Forensic Science Department’s Operating Budget.
Purchasing Language:
Professional Service.
MBE/WBE:
This procurement was reviewed for subcontracting opportunities in accordance with City Code Chapter 2-9B (Minority-Owned and Women-Owned Business Enterprise Procurement Program). For the services required for this procurement, there were no subcontracting opportunities; therefore, no subcontracting goals were established.
For More Information:
Direct questions regarding this Recommendation for Council Action to the Financial Services Department - Central Procurement at FSDCentralProcurementRCAs@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2500.
Additional Backup Information:
This contract is for firearm and toolmark examiner training services for two Forensic Science Department employees. The training is required to become certified to perform forensic firearms casework. The contractor will provide in-depth training in firearm and toolmark identification, skill building in the comparison of fired bullets, cartridge cases and shotshells, and competency development focused on performing casework and defending the work performed in mock testimony situations.
Nichols Forensic Science Consulting, Inc. is internationally recognized as one of the leading experts in communicating the scientific foundations of the firearm and toolmark discipline to technical audiences providing training and consultation nationally and internationally, including on behalf of the United Nations. The company has trained more than 80 examiners across 18 different agencies worldwide, including national and international law enforcement organizations. The training meets the requirements of the Forensic Science Department’s accrediting bodies and covers the same modules as internal training curriculum including additional focus on key areas such as comparisons.
If the City is unable to secure a contract, firearms case backlog could increase delaying the City’s ability to provide timely evidence analysis.