CONCORD, CA — Concord police are asking the City Council to approve $531,496 for two fully automated drones and 10 additional body-worn cameras, an item slated for discussion at the council’s regular meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. The department says the purchase would expand its existing drone program, which has been in use since 2021.
You can see the full discussion and recordings from the session here.
The request includes two new drones designed for so-called Drone as First Responder operations — where aircraft can launch quickly to give officers real-time overhead video — plus ten Axon body cameras to bolster the department’s wearable camera inventory. A staff presentation on the drones was scheduled as part of the meeting agenda. You can see the slides here.
If approved, the package would further formalize Concord’s years-long move into aerial technology. The council previously authorized creation of a police drone program in 2021, amid public debate over privacy and oversight. Tuesday’s ask focuses on adding automated launch capability and more cameras rather than creating a program from scratch.
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What the money buys
According to the agenda summary, Concord PD’s plan is to spend $531,496 to acquire two automated drones and 10 body-worn cameras. The drones are intended to provide live video to officers en route, while added cameras expand coverage for officers in the field. The agenda notes Axon Enterprise for the body-camera portion.
Why police say they need it
Police departments across the region have leaned on drones to reduce response times and provide situational awareness before officers arrive. Alameda County, for example, recently approved a rooftop-launch drone program for emergencies, citing quicker intel and potential safety benefits — a model similar to what Concord is proposing to expand.
Initial trails have apparently proven successful.
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