March 28, 2025
Genasys Proposal for
The City of Richmond’s
Police Department
Request for Proposal for
A Secure Messaging Platform
TITLE: Secure Messaging Platform
DUE: March 28, 2025, 5:00PM
SUBMITTED TO:
The City of Richmond
City of Richmond's BidsOnline system
www.ci.richmond.ca.us
SUBMITTED BY:
Philip Prins (Primary Contact)
Senior Account Executive
Genasys, Inc
16262 West Bernardo Drive
San Diego, CA 92127
Phone: 1 (203) 644-3073
Email: [email protected]
ATTACHMENT 4
Genasys Inc. has submitted proprietary technical data and business-sensitive cost and pricing data for RFP evaluation only. Without the express written consent of Genasys Inc., any disclosure, dissemination, distribution, copying, or other use of this proposal or its substance is not authorized.
PROPRIETARY INFORMATION
This proposal contains proprietary technical data and business-sensitive cost and pricing information, submitted by Genasys Inc. exclusively for the RFP evaluation only. Disclosure, dissemination, distribution, copying, or any other unauthorized use of this document or its contents is expressly prohibited without prior written consent from Genasys Inc.
This submission includes sensitive customer information, which, at customers’ discretion, is available solely for RFP evaluation and is not intended for competitor review. Unauthorized access by competitors has, in the past, led to improper use, accusations, and project award protests, resulting in unnecessary disruptions to the evaluation process. The included technical documentation is representative of Genasys’ performance and response capabilities and is provided strictly for this evaluation.
As a publicly traded entity, Genasys Inc. has provided sensitive, non-public information regarding customer relationships, product development roadmaps, and proprietary technical advantages.
Unauthorized release of such information could influence investor actions and violate U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regulations, given the potential impact on market-sensitive disclosures.
Genasys Inc. has submitted proprietary technical data and business-sensitive cost and pricing data for RFP evaluation only. Without the express written consent of Genasys Inc., any disclosure, dissemination, distribution, copying, or other use of this proposal or its substance is not authorized.
Table of Contents
A. Vendor Cover Letter .............................................................................................................................................. 4 B. Software Solution .................................................................................................................................................... 6 C. Requirements ........................................................................................................................................................... 9 D. Cost Information ................................................................................................................................................... 10 E. Contractor Assignment of Sub-Contract ....................................................................................................... 12 F. Exceptions to this Request for Proposals ........................................................................................................ 12 G. Statement of Impartiality and Disclosure ....................................................................................................... 15 H. Sanctuary City Contracting and Investment Ordinance 12-18NS_2018 .............................................. 15 I. Genasys, Inc. W-9 ................................................................................................................................................ 16
Genasys Inc. has submitted proprietary technical data and business-sensitive cost and pricing data for RFP evaluation only. Without the express written consent of Genasys Inc., any disclosure, dissemination, distribution, copying, or other use of this proposal or its substance is not authorized.
A. Vendor Cover Letter
Thank you for the opportunity to submit this bid for the City of Richmond. Genasys Protect CONNECT (formerly Evertel) provides secure, real-time communication and collaboration, meeting the strictest requirements of public safety agencies, hospitals, financial services, and secure business communications. With security at its core, CONNECT ensures the integrity and reliability of every message, offering a robust platform for both internal and external collaboration. Its speed enables the secure exchange of sensitive information, supporting swift decision-making and cross-agency coordination. CONNECT empowers professionals to form ad-hoc groups for one-off incidents or maintain long-term teams, ensuring continuous, secure communication. The platform meets HIPAA, CJIS, and record retention requirements, allowing agencies and personnel to communicate with complete confidence.
Our solution is a secure, encrypted communication platform specifically designed for law enforcement and public safety personnel. It is accessible across multiple formats, including a mobile app (Android and iOS/iPad) and a desktop version (desktop/laptop/vehicle MDC/MDT). A single account enables seamless access across all platforms, ensuring uninterrupted communication during crises and emergencies. As a cloud-based SaaS solution, CONNECT requires no additional equipment for deployment and can be operational within minutes. All data is securely stored within the agency’s encrypted AWS GovCloud account and individual user accounts within the agency’s platform.
CONNECT was developed through a collaboration between a retired Chief of Police and experienced technology entrepreneurs. During extensive consulting in over 40 states and six countries, our law enforcement co-founder uncovered a widespread issue: 90-95% of officers and employees relied on non-compliant consumer apps for official communications, creating serious security and legal risks. CONNECT was designed to eliminate these risks by offering a purpose-built, compliant solution tailored to the needs of public safety professionals.
With expertise in secure, encrypted data transmission and compliance-driven communications, CONNECT provides seamless, secure, and compliant collaboration across organizations. Key features include:
Daily Stakeholder Communication
Unify your organization and facilitate smooth collaboration with external organizations through real-time communication.
Quick Decision-Making
Enable rapid collaboration, allowing professionals to exchange information, make critical decisions, and respond to events quickly.
Crisis Ready
Key stakeholders will be ready to quickly respond in any crisis through instant communication and a direct connection to law enforcement 24/7.
Full Compliance
Drive compliance, including CJIS, FOIA, and HIPAA, with record retention policies so your agencies or personnel can communicate in confidence.
Genasys Inc. has submitted proprietary technical data and business-sensitive cost and pricing data for RFP evaluation only. Without the express written consent of Genasys Inc., any disclosure, dissemination, distribution, copying, or other use of this proposal or its substance is not authorized.
Built-in Security
Ensure the integrity and dependability of every message. Secure sensitive information with end-to-end, military-grade encryption, stored in a government-use-only cloud solution.
Vetted Access
Designed for public safety, Genasys Protect CONNECT features robust access management to prevent critical communications from being intercepted.
Genasys Inc. (NASDAQ: GNSS) is the global leader in Protective Communications solutions, ensuring private organizations and public safety agencies are “Ready when it matters™.” The company provides the Genasys Protect platform, the most comprehensive portfolio of software and hardware solutions for preparedness, response, and communications. Additionally, Genasys Long Range Acoustic Devices (LRAD®) provide directed, audible voice messages with intelligible vocal clarity from close range to 5,500 meters.
Genasys serves state and local governmental agencies and education (SLED), enterprise organizations in critical sectors such as oil and gas, utilities, manufacturing, and automotive, as well as federal governments and the military. Genasys Protective Communications Solutions have diverse applications, including real-time collaboration and emergency notification for public safety, critical event management for enterprise companies, de-escalation for defense and law enforcement, and automated detection of real-time threats like active shooters and severe weather. Today, Genasys protects over 70 million people globally and is used in more than 100 countries, including more than 500 cities, counties, and states in the U.S.
Genasys has thoroughly reviewed and understands all elements of the RFP, including the City’s insurance requirements, related contracts, ordinances, and business licensing obligations. We are fully prepared to comply with these requirements and deliver a solution that enhances the City of Richmond’s safety and operational effectiveness.
We look forward to the opportunity to bring our proven, secure communication platform to the City of Richmond and support its mission to enhance safety and operational effectiveness.
Sincerely,
Philip Prins (Primary Contact)
Senior Account Executive
Genasys, Inc
16262 West Bernardo Drive
San Diego, CA 92127
Phone: 1 (203) 644-3073
Email: [email protected]
Genasys Inc. has submitted proprietary technical data and business-sensitive cost and pricing data for RFP evaluation only. Without the express written consent of Genasys Inc., any disclosure, dissemination, distribution, copying, or other use of this proposal or its substance is not authorized.
B. Software Solution
The vendor solution should meet or exceed the functionality as described in the Project Background Section, proof of software solution (i.e., ability to access a demo site, trial period, etc.). The vendor that best meets the department requirements will be invited for an in-depth demo (remote or in person).
Solution Compliance and Demonstration
Genasys Protect CONNECT fully meets and exceeds the capabilities and specification requirements outlined in the City of Richmond’s Request for Proposal for a Secure Messaging Platform.
RFP Requirements: Genasys Compliance:
The SaaS must be in full compliance with CJIS Security Policy 5.9.5 and should meet the following minimum requirements:
Yes
• Customize retention period that can be configured and audited by authorized department personnel.
Yes
• Ability to run usage and audit reports, including but not limited to user login, screen shot capture, deleted post/messaging, etc.
Yes
• Mass push notification of messages. Yes
• Ability to set up multiple secured groups (i.e., a chat room) for specific authorized users.
Yes
• Notification “toaster” pop up (Windows/Mac based operating system) and in-app notification for mobile devices (if possible) Yes
Genasys Protect CONNECT supports compliance with public records archiving per state law and city code, as well as federal law (FOIA) and HIPAA. CONNECT provides an auditing feature that is legally defensible for litigation holds and e-discovery.
Genasys Protect CONNECT compliance
Genasys CONNECT is the premier secure collaboration tool, offering instant, real-time communication similar to text messaging but with advanced capabilities designed specifically for public safety. It enables seamless, secure intelligence sharing across agencies through chat rooms, ensuring that all personnel are on the same page with real-time updates. Built to enhance operational efficiency, CONNECT eliminates unnecessary radio chatter and endless email chains, providing agencies with a centralized, transparent platform for coordination and response.
Genasys Inc. has submitted proprietary technical data and business-sensitive cost and pricing data for RFP evaluation only. Without the express written consent of Genasys Inc., any disclosure, dissemination, distribution, copying, or other use of this proposal or its substance is not authorized.
Genasys CONNECT cross-agency secure collaboration solution
CONNECT meets all posted requirements for CJIS compliance and has submitted compliance with the FBI/Department of Justice CJIS mandates. It is the most cost-efficient solution for all levels of government, significantly reducing storage costs through long-term, unlimited cloud-based data storage. The platform supports citywide search efficiency, integrating social media, text messages, and web pages into a single, enterprise-wide system. Its built-in auditing service ensures uniformity and consistency in public records searches, streamlining compliance and response times.
CONNECT has a proven track record of reducing the
time required for searching, gathering, sorting, and
responding to public records requests from hours or
days to mere minutes. This efficiency dramatically
lowers operational costs, eliminates the need for
excessive storage, and enhances agency
responsiveness. Furthermore, audit results are securely stored and can be shared electronically, minimizing
printing expenses.
As a cloud-hosted solution, CONNECT requires minimal
installation and does not store data on individual
devices, ensuring security and compliance. Its
advanced tools and smart search functions allow
agencies to locate critical intelligence while mitigating the risk of litigation or fines due to non-compliance with public records requirements.
Genasys Inc. has submitted proprietary technical data and business-sensitive cost and pricing data for RFP evaluation only. Without the express written consent of Genasys Inc., any disclosure, dissemination, distribution, copying, or other use of this proposal or its substance is not authorized.
Specific services within the CONNECT platform that can be demonstrated virtually include:
• Agency-wide messaging: Instantly share information with all employees in half a second. • Team messaging: Group messaging controlled by supervisors and assigned by the agency. • Unlimited ‘Guest’ Access: Agencies can add as many guests as needed at no additional cost. • Direct Messaging: Military-grade encrypted messaging service replacing SMS/text messaging. • Documents/Bulletins/BOLOs: Law enforcement can create and distribute crime bulletins from any device, at any location, and immediately share internally or regionally with other agencies.
• Regional Collaboration: Share information with as many neighboring agencies/employees as needed at no charge. This is the fastest way to enhance cross-agency coordination and reduce crime.
• Incident Command: During crises/emergencies, open all communications to a region as large as needed (radius-based, state-by-state, multi-state, or national collaboration). • Statewide Staging: Free staging platform for all public safety employees to register, train, and stage for any information-sharing or crisis deployments. • Open Connectivity: Locate and connect with other CONNECT users globally (subject to approval by the receiving user).
• Full Auditing by Executives: Audit all communications within 10-15 seconds, providing comprehensive data reports.
• Unlimited Data Sharing: No fees for the volume of data shared within CONNECT. • Unlimited Data Storage: No limits on the amount of data stored in the agency’s cloud account.
• No Cloud Storage Limits or Fees: No hidden fees or additional expenses related to cloud storage.
We welcome the opportunity to provide the City of Richmond with access to a demo site, trial period, or in-depth demonstration (remote or in-person) to showcase CONNECT’s capabilities in meeting and exceeding the city’s Secure Messaging Platform requirements.
Genasys Inc. has submitted proprietary technical data and business-sensitive cost and pricing data for RFP evaluation only. Without the express written consent of Genasys Inc., any disclosure, dissemination, distribution, copying, or other use of this proposal or its substance is not authorized.
C. Requirements
In addition, the proposed solution should include the minimum requirements for the services below:
a. Software solution is operated and managed onshore (no offshore support or development allowed)
Genasys confirms that our software solution operates exclusively within the United States on AWS GovCloud. All services, including support and development, are managed entirely by Genasys employees. This ensures compliance with stringent security, privacy, and regulatory requirements, reinforcing our commitment to providing secure and reliable solutions for public safety and government agencies.
b. Data that is stored in the cloud (Amazon Web Services or Microsoft Azure) stored in a manner that meets or exceeds CJIS requirements.
Genasys ensures that all data stored in the cloud on AWS GovCloud is managed in full compliance with CJIS requirements. Our storage and security protocols meet or exceed all CJIS standards, providing the highest level of protection for sensitive law enforcement data.
Our platform is designed to maintain the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of stored information while adhering to strict regulatory guidelines.
c. Multi-factor authentication.
The Genasys platform features robust access management, including two-factor authentication and detailed access logs, aligning with NIST's access control and auditability guidelines. User authentication is managed through Auth0/Okta, with automatic account lockout after 10 failed login attempts to enhance security.
d. ISO 27001, Fed Ramp or SOX 2 certification preferred (but not required)
Genasys has implemented a rigorous system hardening process in compliance with ISO 27001 standards. Additionally, Genasys undergoes a SOC 2 Type II audit by an independent third- party firm to ensure comprehensive security and customer protection. The underlying AWS infrastructure supporting Genasys meets a wide range of audit and security standards, including SOC 1, SOC 2, PCI-DSS, and the EU-US Privacy Shield framework.
Genasys Inc. has submitted proprietary technical data and business-sensitive cost and pricing data for RFP evaluation only. Without the express written consent of Genasys Inc., any disclosure, dissemination, distribution, copying, or other use of this proposal or its substance is not authorized.
D. Cost Information
Provide a comprehensive fee schedule for all the services the Respondent will provide to the Police Department (i.e., per user cost, site license, etc.). All cost and pricing data, including documents showing indirect costs and direct labor rates should be included in the proposal. Pricing should include any annual price increase. The anticipated duration of this service is 3 years.
Proposers will be paid at the same rates set forth in their cost proposal unless further negotiated in writing and agreed to by the Police Department.
Genasys Inc. has submitted proprietary technical data and business-sensitive cost and pricing data for RFP evaluation only. Without the express written consent of Genasys Inc., any disclosure, dissemination, distribution, copying, or other use of this proposal or its substance is not authorized.
Genasys Inc. has submitted proprietary technical data and business-sensitive cost and pricing data for RFP evaluation only. Without the express written consent of Genasys Inc., any disclosure, dissemination, distribution, copying, or other use of this proposal or its substance is not authorized.
E. Contractor Assignment of Sub-Contract
The resulting contract shall not be assigned, transferred, or sublet, in whole or in part, without the prior written approval of the Police Department. If Offerors intend to subcontract any portion of the resulting contract, they must describe their process for selecting such subcontractor(s) and the quality control measures that the Offeror will employ to ensure that any subcontractor complies with the provisions of Offeror’s contract with the Department.
Genasys confirms that all services under the resulting contract will be provided directly by Genasys, and we will not be subcontracting any portion of the work. Furthermore, the resulting contract shall not be assigned, transferred, or sublet, in whole or in part, without the prior written approval of the Police Department.
F. Exceptions to this Request for Proposals
The proposer shall state whether it takes exception(s) to this RFP, including but not limited to the City of Richmond’s Standard Services Agreement – RFP (Attachment 1). If the proposer does take exception(s) to any portion of the RFP or contract, the specific portion to which exception(s) is taken must be identified by section number and explained. Requests for changes or additions to sections of the City of Richmond’s Standard Services Agreement must be made by requesting deletion of specific words and/or by providing the newly requested contract language. Requests for complete replacement of the City of Richmond’s Standard Services Agreement for another contract will not be granted. Failure to make exceptions to the RFP or Standard Services Agreement within the proposal will be deemed a waiver of any objection. Exceptions will be considered during the proposal evaluation process.
Genasys exceptions are stated on the following pages.
1. Attachment 1 (City of Richmond Standard Contract, hereafter “Attachment 1”), Exhibit B, Section 3(a).
Revise: revise payment terms from net 45 to net 30 to align with Contractor’s standard payment terms.
2. Attachment 1, Exhibit D, Section 2. Request the addition of the following language at the end of this paragraph to be clear that Contractor is not liable for delays causes solely by the City.
Add: “Notwithstanding the foregoing, Contractor shall not be responsible for delays caused solely by the action or inaction of City or its agents.”
3. Attachment 1, Exhibit D, Section 6. This section implies on-going services and custom development work to be done by Contractor. Deletion of this Section in its entirety to clarify Contractor’s ownership interests in its proprietary software and services.
Genasys Inc. has submitted proprietary technical data and business-sensitive cost and pricing data for RFP evaluation only. Without the express written consent of Genasys Inc., any disclosure, dissemination, distribution, copying, or other use of this proposal or its substance is not authorized.
Revise: Delete and replace with the following: “See Special Conditions, Exhibit E.”
4. Attachment 1, Exhibit D, Section 7. Contractor requests revision of this section to narrowly tailor the scope to align with a Software as a Service offering.
Revise: Delete Section in its entirety and replace with the following:
a. Contractor shall maintain complete and accurate records with respect to the fees charged to the City under this Contract (collectively the “Records”).
b. All Records shall be maintained in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. To the extent required by applicable law, rule or regulation, once per calendar year, Contractor shall provide access to the Records to the representatives of the City or its designees during regular business hours upon reasonable prior notice. The City has the right to examine and audit the Records related to this Contract for the sole purpose of verifying the accuracy of invoicing under this Contract and/or Contractor’s compliance with its confidentiality and obligations hereunder. All Records examined or obtained in connection with an audit shall constitute Contractor’s proprietary information and may only be used for the purpose described above. Notwithstanding the foregoing, City shall not be entitled to examine any legally privileged or highly sensitive information of Contractor, such as budgeting models and methodologies, information about compensation to employees and contractors, trade secrets, and information belonging to third parties which Contractor is required to keep confidential.
Such Records shall be maintained by Contractor for a period of two (2) years after receipt of final payment.”
5. Attachment 1, Exhibit D, Section 9(a). Pricing is based on a set term of multiple years.
Termination of convenience is not applicable to this subscription offering. Contractor requests removal of this section in its entirety.
6. Attachment 1, Exhibit D, Section 9(b). This should be a mutual termination right. If the City is in breach, Contractor should be afforded the same right to terminate and both parties should have a reasonable opportunity to cure. Contractor requests revision of this section in its entirety.
Revise: “Either party will have the right to terminate this Contract for default at any time, upon written notice, in the event of any material breach of this Contract by the other party, subject to thirty (30) days prior written notice and opportunity to cure such breach. Contractor shall be compensated as provided in Exhibit B for all amounts due and owing up to the date of termination. Additionally, in the event of such termination, the City may proceed with the work in any reasonable manner it chooses.”
7. Attachment 1, Exhibit D Section 11. The indemnity proposed by the City is too broad for a SaaS offering with no on-site services. Contractor requests that the parties start negotiations with Contractor’s standard language referenced in Exhibit E.
Revise: Delete and replace with the following: “See Special Conditions, Exhibit E.”
Genasys Inc. has submitted proprietary technical data and business-sensitive cost and pricing data for RFP evaluation only. Without the express written consent of Genasys Inc., any disclosure, dissemination, distribution, copying, or other use of this proposal or its substance is not authorized.
8. Attachment 1, Exhibit D Section 12. Contractor requests revision of this section to add language to state that approval of any assignment under this Contract will not unreasonably withheld.
Revise: Add the following qualifier to the end of the last sentence in 12(a) and the first sentence of 12(b): “which will not unreasonably withheld.”
9. Attachment 1, Exhibit D Section 17. Given that Contractor is providing access to its proprietary software and incorporating terms regarding the use thereof into the Contract, all provisions should hold equal weight regardless of the drafting party. Accordingly, Contractor requests deletion of the last sentence of this paragraph in its entirety.
10. Attachment 1, Exhibit D Section 22. This section implies the delivery of tangible goods, not an off the shelf Software as a Service product. Contractor requests deletion of this Section in its entirety to clarify Contractor’s ownership interests in its proprietary software and services. The Contractor requests the City review the standard warranties provided to all similarly situated customers as is detailed in Exhibit E.
Revise: Delete and replace with the following: “See Special Conditions, Exhibit E.”
11. Attachment 1, Exhibit D Section 25. Contractor requests the waiver provision be mutual.
Revise: “The waiver by a party of any breach of any term or provision of this Contract shall not be construed as a waiver of any subsequent breach. Inspections or approvals, or statements by any officer, agent or employee of the City relating to the Contractor’s performance, or payment therefore, or any combination of these acts, shall not relieve a party from its obligation to fulfill this Contract as prescribed; nor shall a party be thereby stopped from bringing any action for damages or enforcement arising from any failure to comply with any of the terms and conditions of this Contract.”
12. Attachment 1, Exhibit E. The following shall be added to Exhibit E. “Contractor’s Master Subscription Agreement located at: is hereby incorporated herein by reference into this Agreement. https://genasys.com/saas-services-agreement/”
13. Attachment 1, Exhibit F, Section 1. Contractor requests removal of the statement listed in Section 1 and any reference thereto. Per its insurance policies, Contractor can agree to the following contractual statement, but cannot agree to have such language on its certificates.
Revise: Remove any reference to statements on the certificate and replace with the following sentence to be included in the Contract only: “Acting in good faith, Contractor shall endeavor to provide thirty (30) days’ advance written notice to the City of Richmond, Attention: Risk Manager should any of the above insurance covered by this certificate be canceled or coverage reduced before the expiration date thereof.”
14. Attachment 1, Exhibit F, Section 1. Per Contractor’s carrier, endorsements must are not able to revised and must “speak for themselves,” therefore, Contractor cannot add any parties to its endorsements, only to the certificate of insurance. Contractor requests removals of the last sentence of this Section.
Genasys Inc. has submitted proprietary technical data and business-sensitive cost and pricing data for RFP evaluation only. Without the express written consent of Genasys Inc., any disclosure, dissemination, distribution, copying, or other use of this proposal or its substance is not authorized.
G. Statement of Impartiality and Disclosure
This proposal shall include a statement declaring that the proposer’s and sub-consultants are not currently, and will not, during the performance of these services, participate in any other similar work involving a third-party with interests currently in conflict or likely to conflict with City of Richmond’s interests. Additionally, the proposer is required to disclose any pending or active investigations or litigation that may affect the reputation or ability of the proposer to carry out the Project.
To Genasys’ knowledge, each of Genasys and of its sub-consultants are not currently, and will not, during the performance of these services, participate in any other similar work involving a third-party with interests currently in conflict or likely to conflict with City of Richmond’s interests
H. Sanctuary City Contracting and Investment Ordinance 12- 18NS_2018
The City of Richmond’s Sanctuary Contracting Ordinance certification requires the City to refrain from doing business with vendors who provide Data Broker or Extreme Vetting services to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Division of the United States Department of Homeland Security (“ICE”). If the Department decides to award the bid to a vendor that is unable to comply with this ordinance, the Department may ask the City Council for an exemption
Genasys confirms that we fully comply with the ordinance and do not provide Data Broker or Extreme Vetting services to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
Genasys Inc. has submitted proprietary technical data and business-sensitive cost and pricing data for RFP evaluation only. Without the express written consent of Genasys Inc., any disclosure, dissemination, distribution, copying, or other use of this proposal or its substance is not authorized.
I. Genasys, Inc. W-9