El Mirage approves buy‑in to Glendale regional public‑safety training center for up to $782,000

The El Mirage Common Council voted July 1 to approve an intergovernmental agreement to join the Glendale Regional Public Safety Training Center (GRPSTC) with a city buy‑in cost not to exceed $782,000.

Police Chief Marzocca told council the El Mirage Police Department lacks a local, comprehensive training facility and currently travels to multiple offsite ranges and courses. He said the city’s access to a dedicated range, vehicle course, defensive tactics mat room, canine and POPAT (physical ability) courses, and a judgment‑based virtual reality simulator would improve officer proficiency and reduce liability.

Chief Marzocca said about half of the patrol force has fewer than three years on the job and that ready access to a local range and training infrastructure is increasingly important for officer safety and community outcomes. He also noted recurring challenges in finding available range dates at distant facilities.

Council discussion acknowledged the one‑time cost but framed the buy‑in as a long‑term investment in training. Councilmembers asked about usage scheduling and whether member cities reserve dates for their officers; staff said members coordinate usage and that partners already using the facility include Glendale and several neighboring agencies.

The motion to approve the agreement was made by Councilmember Ryan Dorsey and seconded by Councilmember Nora McDaniel. The motion carried; staff noted an annual maintenance or membership cost will follow the buy‑in and should be included in future budget planning.

Clarifying details

- One‑time buy‑in not to exceed $782,000; annual maintenance/participation costs were referenced during the discussion and will be budgeted in future years. - Council framed the purchase as an operational need for firearms, vehicle and simulation training rather than a discretionary capital project.

Speakers

- Police Chief (Marzocca), Police Chief, El Mirage Police Department - Councilmember Ryan Dorsey, Councilmember, City of El Mirage - Councilmember Nora McDaniel, Councilmember, City of El Mirage - Mayor Harmacio, Mayor, City of El Mirage

Ending

Staff will finalize the intergovernmental agreement and return procurement/implementation details to council as required; the city manager and police department will present budget adjustments for ongoing membership/maintenance in future budget cycles.