Columbus City Council made headlines during its recent meeting by approving a significant investment in public safety technology. The council unanimously agreed to purchase two state-of-the-art drones from Skydio Incorporated for the police department, totaling $62,861.40. This decision marks a pivotal shift towards enhancing law enforcement capabilities in the community.

Captain Moltrich presented the proposal, highlighting the need to move away from foreign-manufactured products, specifically DJI drones, due to security concerns. The new Skydio drones are not only made in the USA but also come equipped with advanced features, including live streaming capabilities and the potential for autonomous deployment from police facilities. "The technology being implemented with Skydio is nothing short of miraculous," Moltrich stated, emphasizing the drones' AI capabilities and their integration with existing law enforcement equipment.

The drones will allow officers to conduct aerial surveillance and provide three-dimensional imagery of critical areas, such as the dike, enhancing situational awareness during emergencies. The council expressed enthusiasm for the purchase, with members eager to see the drones in action and even requesting a demonstration once they are operational.

In addition to the drone acquisition, the council also approved a solid waste hauling license for Smash the Trash Sanitation LLC, reflecting ongoing efforts to improve city services. The meeting underscored Columbus's commitment to leveraging technology for public safety and efficient city management, setting a forward-thinking tone for future initiatives.