Title
Approve and authorize ACI Worldwide Payments, Inc. (ACI) to accept electronic payments from Monterey County Sheriff’s Office Alarm customers and charge no more than $0.25 for e-check services or a service fee of 2.49% to recover the interchange fees associated with the acceptance of the electronic payment.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors adopt a resolution to:
Approve and authorize ACI Payments, Inc. (ACI) to accept electronic payments from Monterey County Sheriff’s Office Alarm customers and charge no more than $0.25 for e-check services or a service fee of 2.49% to recover the interchange fees associated with the acceptance of the electronic payment.
SUMMARY
On June 9, 2026, the County of Monterey Board of Supervisors authorized the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office to enter into an agreement with PMAM to handle all billing in accordance with the County’s alarm ordinance, collect payments, and provide comprehensive reports. The Monterey County Sheriff's Office (MCSO) may still receive payment for alarm permits and false alarm fees directly, however those payments must be made in person to pay via credit card. PMAM Corporation is able to accept payments electronically through ACI Worldwide Payments, Inc. (ACI). The Treasurer-Tax Collector's Office advised the Sheriff's Office that Board approval is required to authorize the acceptance of electronic payments and the pass-through of processing fees to customers, as permitted under California Government Code § 6159(h).
DISCUSSION:
Currently, credit card payments for alarm permits and false alarm fees can only be made in person at the Sheriff’s Office Monday through Friday during public lobby business hours. PMAM Corporations offers alarm customers the ability to make electronic payments without the needs for customers to respond to the Sheriff’s Office in person. The ability to offer electronic payments will provide a convenient alternative for the alarm customers. Alarm customers will be able to make payments at their convenience using their computer or cellular phone.
PMAM Corporation utilization of ACI to provide this service will improve service to our Monterey County residents. Alarm customers utilizing this electronic service will be charged no more than $0.25 for e-check services or a service fee of 2.49% to recover the inter exchange fees associated with the acceptance of the electronic payment. The Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office notified the Sheriff’s Office this Board action is required to allow for the payments to be conducted electronically and the associated fees to be collected.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT/COMMITTEE ACTIONS:
The Monterey County Treasury Tax Collector’s Office worked with the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office to find the best e-commerce method and approved the selection of using the vendor.
FINANCING:
There will be no added cost to the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS:
The proposed recommended action demonstrates the County’s commitment to provide public safety in the County of Monterey.
____ Well-Being and Quality of Life
_X__ Sustainable Infrastructure for the Present and Future
____ Safe and Resilient Communities
____ Diverse and Thriving Economy
____ Dynamic Organization and Employer of Choice
Prepared by: Arthur Curtright, Management Analyst III, Extension #3708
Reviewed by: Keith Boyd, Undersheriff, Extension #3859
Approved by: Tina Nieto, Sheriff/Coroner, Extension # 3750
Attachments:
Board Report
Resolution
PMAM Board Order