Washington Township Tables Decision on $11,000+ Security Upgrade, Seeks More Details

Article Summary: The Washington Township Board of Trustees has deferred a decision on a significant security system overhaul, citing the need to clarify key differences between two bids from TK Precision Audio & Visual.

11,000). The board requested more detailed comparisons on warranties, service, and specific costs before reconsidering the item.

Township Security Upgrade Key Points:

• The proposed project includes replacing all existing security cameras, adding three new ones, and installing electronic locks on the front and office doors.

• The board reviewed two quotes: one from Umbrella Automation for $11,000 and another from TK Precision Audio & Visual for $12,728.83.

• Trustee Tracy Heldt raised questions about camera placement, future upgradeability, warranties, and service availability.

• The board will revisit the security upgrade at its June meeting after Supervisor Mike Stanula gathers more detailed information from both companies.

BEECHER – Washington Township officials are holding off on a major security upgrade for the Township Center, choosing to seek more information before committing to an expenditure of over $11,000.

During its May 5 meeting, the Board of Trustees reviewed two proposals to replace and enhance the building’s camera and access control systems. Supervisor Mike Stanula presented quotes from Umbrella Automation for $11,000 and TK Precision Audio & Visual for $12,728.83. The cost of the project would be split equally between the township and the Road District.

Stanula explained the plan involves replacing all existing cameras and adding three new ones at strategic locations: the front entrance, the lobby, and a back hall covering the south entrance. A key feature of the upgrade would be the installation of electronic locks on the front door and office door.

“The goal is to have all entry doors locked at all times to restrict unauthorized entry into the building,” Stanula said, noting that visitors would need to be “buzzed” in by staff.

While the board acknowledged the need for enhanced security, questions arose regarding the details of the proposals. Trustee Tracy Heldt questioned why a camera was not planned for the main meeting room and inquired about the ease of future upgrades if the technology becomes obsolete.

Stanula responded that an additional camera could be added if the board wished, and he believed the proposed equipment would not need upgrading for several years.

Further discussion revealed discrepancies between the two quotes that made a direct comparison difficult. The board noted that TK Precision’s bid included the cost of installing electronic door strikes, while the quote from Umbrella Automation listed that work as a separate expense to be handled by a locksmith, estimated at approximately $700 per door.

Concerns were also raised about differences in warranties and service availability between the two companies.

“The Board requested that information be clarified so they can compare all aspects of the quotes equally,” the meeting minutes stated.

Given the unanswered questions, the board decided to table the motion. Stanula will contact both companies to gather more specific details on the differing points. The item is expected to be on the agenda for the board’s June meeting.