The Ocala City Council will consider the purchase of over $280,000 of security camera systems for the city’s second parking garage that is currently under construction in downtown.
Council members will vote during their regular meeting on Tuesday, April 7, on a proposal to spend $281,573 to equip the city’s second downtown parking garage with a comprehensive physical security camera system.
Ground was broken for the new parking garage last year after the former church at the site was demolished in early 2025 to make way for the six-level structure. The completion of construction of the new facility is currently on schedule for later this year.
While the original construction contract included the necessary conduit and power supply, the actual camera hardware and installation were reserved for the city’s physical security provider.
The project involves the installation of IP-based cameras, mounts, and network devices by Morse Communications Inc..
According to a city staff report, the cameras will be connected to Ocala’s centralized video management platform and monitored by VIP Security and the Ocala Police Department’s Real Time Crime Center.
City staff benchmarked the $281,573 quote from Morse Communications against two other providers to ensure competitive pricing. LTC Technology Systems provided a lower estimate of $255,802.79, while Sciens Building Solutions submitted a higher bid of $339,475.
Despite not being the lowest bidder, staff recommended Morse Communications because the company has a “Most Favored Nations” pricing guarantee with Ocala and has previously demonstrated high-quality work on Downtown Parking Garage No. 1. Using Morse also allows the city to standardize equipment across its entire security infrastructure.
The project budget initially identified $140,000 for the security system, requiring an additional $141,583 in funding to cover the total cost. A budget resolution to appropriate these funds is included on the same meeting agenda.
The installation is intended to enhance visitor confidence by creating a safer environment and improving the city’s ability to detect unauthorized access, suspicious activity, and vehicle accidents. Details regarding the specific camera models and technical specifications are exempt from public disclosure under Florida law to protect the city’s critical infrastructure.
Last week, the city put out a call for artists to help build a memorial that will honor the legacy of the Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church. The deadline for artists to apply for the Mount Moriah project is April 19, and the application is free.
The Ocala City Council meets at 4 p.m. at Ocala City Hall, located at 110 SE Watula Avenue.