The Ocala Police Department is seeking approval from city officials to spend $315,000 to maintain cloud software and security systems that underpin its daily operations and investigations.
A measure to continue the use of a cooperative purchasing agreement to acquire Microsoft 365 cloud subscriptions, server licenses, and desktop licenses from SHI International Corp. will come before the Ocala City Council during its regular meeting on Tuesday, January 20.
OPD currently uses Microsoft’s Office 365 SaaS (Software as a Service) cloud system. City staff has recommended the approval of a $314,994 payment to SHI International Corp. for the continued use of the software’s standard productivity tools like email, Word, and Excel.
According to the city, the primary necessity for the purchase is the platform’s security and investigative capabilities.
The system provides the agency with tools to monitor for internal and external network threats, conduct risk assessments, and enforce equipment standards for officers working in the field.
Additionally, the software suite includes specific investigative tools essential for maintaining compliance with the Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS) and protecting personally identifiable information.
The purchase is being made through a cooperative purchasing agreement with Sourcewell, which allows local governments to secure competitive pricing.
The cost for the software has risen slightly from the previous year, with the department’s most recent purchase for the services in April 2025 totaling $303,545.
The current expenditure has been accounted for in this year’s budget.
The Ocala City Council next meets on Tuesday, January 20, at 4 p.m. at Ocala City Hall (110 SE Watula Avenue).