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Police staff report radio upgrades, evidence-room move and multiple grants; evidence-locker work due July
Summary
Police staff told council they are upgrading radios and video systems, expect an evidence-room project to be complete by July, and described several grants covering overtime, equipment, and drug enforcement support.
Police staff described equipment upgrades, grant-funded overtime and equipment, and a planned evidence-room move during a departmental report to the Kalispell City Council.
Staff said the police department is working toward a radio upgrade and broader video system improvements. "Vision vehicles placed a few to 2 vehicles, continuing to work toward radio placement ... up to 8 megahertz radio system," a police presenter said, characterizing an ongoing, multi-year radio and video project the department is phasing in.
On the evidence-room and records move, staff said the project is progressing and expected to be finished in early summer. "It should be finished by July 1 of this year," a presenter said, adding the department expects to move in within the first three to four weeks after completion. Staff said the change will consolidate case information and provide additional locker-room space needed for dispositions and detective operations. Staff estimated facility-related costs for lockers and related work at about $50,000 (staff supplied a range: "$25,000. With 50. Right around 50,000").
Several grants were described. Staff said grants fund overtime and equipment for drug enforcement and task forces and that the department receives and passes grant funds through state programs. One staffing grant was described as funding a full-time position to return patrol capacity; another grant provides equipment and overtime allotments (staff reported figures such as $3,000 in equipment and an additional allotment for overtime). Staff also noted the department uses federal or state grant funds for radios and other equipment purchases where eligible.
There was no formal council action on these items during the meeting; council members asked clarifying questions about timing, costs and how grant-funded positions affect ongoing staffing. Staff said some purchases will be paid from existing grant awards and budgeted capital lines.
