Board directs staff to bring resolution for firearms training simulator after work-session discussion

City staff told the Board of Mayor and Aldermen that they plan to reallocate contingency money from the police headquarters construction to purchase a firearms training simulator and asked permission to present a formal resolution at the next meeting.

Missy Stahl, capital improvements program director, described the simulator and the advantages staff expects: year-round, recordable training; reduced live-ammunition use; scenario-based use-of-force and de-escalation training; and the ability to load 360-degree video of local schools or public facilities for facility-specific drills. “This firearm simulator would allow to be recorded and tracked and it would also provide consistent training across all of the officers,” Stahl said.

Chief Bright and Deputy Chief Fogel attended and noted the simulator addresses two high-liability training areas: vehicle operations and use-of-force. The unit under consideration fits into a room already built at the new headquarters, staff said, and includes a portable component staff can bring to outreach events and the city’s Citizens Academy.

Board members asked about operating costs and capability. Vice Mayor Pomeroy and others asked whether the system supports both handgun and long-rifle simulation; staff said it does and that CO2 tanks or battery options power the platform. Annual consumable costs were described as limited — staff estimated CO2 refills at roughly $150–$200 when needed.

There was no formal vote to purchase during the work session. Following discussion, the board directed staff to prepare a resolution for the March 17 meeting to reallocate contingency funds and authorize procurement. Staff noted the contingency money is in the police-construction project account (described as an 1875 fund) and not the general fund.