Fargo Police Seek Approval for $13.4 Million Technology Contract to Enhance Law Enforcement Capabilities
By Devin Fry
Published: December 22, 2025, 10:05 AM CST
FARGO, N.D. — The Fargo Police Department is requesting city commissioners’ approval for a significant $13.4 million, 10-year technology contract aimed at modernizing and expanding the department’s operational capabilities. The proposed deal with Axon Enterprises Inc. includes upgrades to existing tools and introduces new technology such as drones and virtual reality (VR) training systems.
Modernizing Equipment and Adding Advanced Tools
The contract would renew essential equipment currently used by the Fargo police, including body-worn cameras, in-car video systems, and Tasers. These tools are critical for transparency, officer safety, and evidence collection.
In addition to updating existing technology, the contract introduces a “Drone as First Responder” program. This initiative would deploy drones to emergency scenes, potentially arriving minutes before officers. These drones would provide live aerial video feeds to dispatchers and officers on the ground, offering improved situational awareness.
Police Chief David Zibolski expressed confidence in how the drone program would enhance officer safety. “Officers get aerial view before arriving, helping them plan approach and avoid dangerous conditions,” Zibolski explained in a memo to city commissioners. The aerial perspective can be vital for assessing threats and coordinating responses more effectively.
Virtual Reality Training to Improve Crisis Response
The proposed contract also includes virtual reality training systems designed to help officers practice de-escalation techniques and engage with mental health crisis scenarios in a safe, controlled environment. This training approach aims to better prepare officers for real-world encounters that often require sensitive and informed responses.
Financial Benefits and Funding
Fargo Police Department first implemented Axon’s body camera system in June 2021, funded by $3 million in CARES Act funds. The new contract would secure current pricing through 2035, resulting in an estimated savings of $8.6 million over the 10-year term, as outlined in the chief’s memo.
Funding for the contract will come from the city’s Public Safety Sales Tax and the police department’s operating budget. The substantial investment highlights the city’s commitment to harnessing technology to improve public safety and law enforcement effectiveness.
Next Steps
The $13.4 million contract will be up for discussion at the upcoming city council meeting scheduled for Monday. City commissioners will consider the potential benefits and costs before making a decision on this long-term partnership with Axon Enterprises.
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