Police department to accept state grant to buy rifle‑grade ballistic shield
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Summary
The committee recommended acceptance of a Missouri Department of Public Safety grant of $9,160.36 to purchase a rifle‑grade ballistic shield for the Lee's Summit Police Department; staff said it will not cost the city and saves next year's budget request.
The Finance & Budget Committee recommended that city council accept a Missouri Department of Public Safety grant of $9,160.36 to purchase a rifle‑grade ballistic shield for the Lee's Summit Police Department.
Major Josh Patterson (introduced in the meeting as Major Josh Patterson), representing the police department, said the department currently has multiple pistol‑grade shields but only one rifle‑grade shield. He described the newer rifle shields as much lighter and more mobile than older models and said the purchased shield weighs about 15 pounds and protects against rifle rounds. "This is an opportunity that we have that was a grant that it's not costing the city any money," he said, noting the department had planned to request the shield in next year's budget but the grant allowed earlier acquisition.
Committee members expressed appreciation for public safety priorities following recent local events. The committee voted to recommend the grant agreement to city council for formal approval and to authorize the mayor to execute the agreement.
The item will be placed on the City Council agenda for final acceptance and authorization.
