Merrimack council approves Abbie Griffin Memorial Fund spending for police drones and fire rescue gear
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Summary
The council voted to accept and expend Abbie Griffin Memorial Fund money for police equipment including two interior drones, an electric bike and work phones, and separate funds for fire confined‑space rescue rigging; both motions passed unanimously.
The Merrimack Town Council on April 10 approved two allocations from the Abbie Griffin Memorial Fund to purchase equipment for public safety departments.
Police request: the council voted to accept and expend up to $11,851 from the Abbie Griffin Memorial Fund to buy two DJI Avatar 2 Fly More interior drones, a Trek service electric bike, 45 refurbished iPhones and six rifle suppressors for specialized units. The motion was made by Councilor Andy Hunter and seconded by Jennifer (councilor). The vote was recorded 6‑0‑0 in favor.
Police officials said the interior search drones are designed for interior, close‑quarters searches and include obstacle sensors and first‑person goggles. Police staff noted operational limits and training requirements; the department told the council it currently has two certified drone operators and that FAA rules and the department’s standard operating procedures will govern use. Police leadership assured residents: "We’re not gonna be flying into your house unless there’s a search warrant issued by a judge authorizing such use."
The police presentation also included a request for 45 refurbished phones to avoid requiring officers to use personal devices that could be subject to discovery requests; the department said FirstNet service will be available for about $15 per phone.
Fire request: the council also approved, by separate motion, the fire department’s request to accept and expend up to $11,852 from the same fund to purchase confined‑space rescue rigging, pulleys, harnesses and associated equipment. The fire presentation noted the department’s current rigging is over 20 years old and that the new kit would support rescues in tanks and other below‑grade spaces. Fire presenter Dawn said the gear "is certainly invaluable for us to have." The motion passed 6‑0‑0.
Both allotments were described as purchases funded by a donor memorial fund that supplements but does not replace regular departmental budgeting. Councilors noted some items will be competitively bid to secure lower prices than list estimates. The council approved both measures under RSA 31:95‑b and the town charter authority for acceptance and expenditure of donated funds.