Local governments are acquiring more public safety technology, including transformative AI toolsLocal governments are acquiring more public safety technology, including transformative AI tools

Cities and counties are increasing their public safety spending, and that’s a national trend, says Dean Cunningham, segment development manager, Public Safety, at Axis Communications, which produces network cameras, access control systems, network audio devices and other IP networking solutions for physical security and video surveillance applications. The firm offers solutions for cities, other governments and corrections.

He says several factors, including rising crime rates and heightened public safety concerns, are driving this focused investment. He notes that investments in cutting-edge technologies (artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, integrated systems) are now becoming a priority. “Each of these tools can help improve operational efficiency and provide more effective responses to public safety needs.”

He adds that community-focused initiatives also play a role. “By recognizing the importance of addressing the root causes of crime, cities and counties are channeling more funds into programs aimed at violence prevention, community engagement, and building trust between public safety organizations and the communities they serve. This multifaceted approach highlights the growing recognition of the importance of both immediate safety measures and long-term strategies for creating safer, more resilient communities.”

Cunningham urges local government officials to review their entity’s existing inventory to determine current public safety technology and services. That way they can identify gaps and needs. Next, they need to determine their agency’s project scope and choose an open scalable platform for future growth. “They must also carefully select trusted partners and employees and conduct a proof of concept to ensure the technology, services and equipment fit the current community's needs. Then, they can integrate technology into operational planning in order to refine and evaluate system performance on a continuous scale. Lastly, it's important to stay up to date on any emerging technologies to keep public safety efforts as currently advanced as possible.”

Cunningham tells Co-op Solutions that data-driven tools are revolutionizing how law enforcement agencies detect, prevent and respond to criminal activity, enabling more proactive and efficient operations. “Tools like AI and cloud technology are helping to enhance public safety with predictive policing software that identifies potential crime patterns, real-time data integration platforms for seamless information sharing, gunshot detection systems for rapid incident response, and mobile forensics tools to collect and analyze digital evidence efficiently.”

He adds that AI has proven to be a game-changer across the public safety spectrum. He notes that it powers predictive analytics, facial recognition systems, and automated incident reporting. “It enables faster and more accurate decision-making.”

Cunningham says cloud-based solutions can aid public safety teams. “They provide improved collaboration, scalability and remote access, allowing agencies to manage and share data securely and efficiently. By integrating cutting-edge technologies and community-oriented approaches, public safety organizations are better equipped to enhance operational efficiency and address both immediate and long-term safety needs.”

These technology tools, he adds, can help build trust with the community. “Tools and programs that foster transparency and engagement between law enforcement and the communities they serve are becoming critical priorities. Technology advancements continue to play a central role in shaping a safer and more resilient future.” Cunningham adds that the sophisticated lineup of public safety products and services now available reflects the complex and interconnected challenges that law enforcement agencies face in 2025.

Cunningham says AI has already begun to transform public safety, and will continue to do so in the years ahead, adding that law enforcement agencies are enjoying a significant boost in efficiency, responsiveness and effectiveness through AI-enhanced tools. “AI’s integration into public safety systems is already demonstrating remarkable potential, and future advancements promise even greater benefits. AI holds transformative potential for public safety, offering the ability to enhance efficiency, reduce response times, and make data-driven decisions. By addressing immediate needs and enabling long-term strategies, AI empowers public safety agencies to create safer, more resilient communities.” He adds that when it is implemented thoughtfully and ethically, AI can revolutionize public safety performance and adapt to ever-changing challenges effectively.

Cunningham spotlights some of the key contributions that AI-enhanced systems offer law enforcement agencies:

1. Data integration and decision-making
2. Predictive analytics and crime prevention
3. Real-time incident response
4. Enhanced emergency communications
5. Advanced surveillance and monitoring
6. Cybersecurity and threat detection
7. Community engagement and trust
8. Training and skill development

Cunningham sees the benefits of cooperative purchasing agreements in local government procurements and acquisitions. “They're an effective strategy for cities and counties to save time and money while acquiring high-quality public safety equipment and services. By leveraging collective bargaining power, streamlining procurement processes, and ensuring compliance, cooperative purchasing agreements provide agencies with the resources they need to enhance public safety without overextending budgets or timelines.”

He notes that these contracts are often facilitated through national or regional procurement organizations. “These contracts allow multiple agencies to pool their purchasing power, resulting in several key advantages such as cost savings, time efficiency, access to high-quality equipment and services, and collaboration and knowledge-sharing.”

OMNIA Partners, who sponsors this page, offers a robust portfolio of cooperative contracts in the public procurement space. The firm lists a number of cooperative contracts under the phrase “public safety.”