Middleton approves conversion of 2016 Tahoe for second K-9 unit, funds kennels and equipment from council discretionary account

The Middleton City Council authorized the mayor to approve conversion of a 2016 Chevy Tahoe into a K-9 unit by Emergency Responders Services Inc. in an amount not to exceed $12,778.54, and indicated discretionary council funds would be used to pay for related equipment and kennels.

Sergeant Hilkey told the council the department had obtained an additional dog for about $500 from a retired officer who would provide obedience training at no charge, and that training and equipment needs made purchasing a second K-9 vehicle desirable. "I'm asking if there's any funds left in the council discretionary fund to pay for a conversion of a second Tahoe," Hilkey said.

Council discussed the discretionary fund balance and startup costs for recently approved hires. The sergeant outlined additional equipment needs: two high-end steel kennels for officers' homes at roughly $1,200'$1,500 combined, and routine expenses; Tractor Supply was mentioned as donating food for the second dog. Staff provided a discretionary-fund balance estimate and said that after the items discussed the council would have approximately $26,636 remaining in the discretionary account.

Council moved to authorize the mayor to approve the vehicle conversion; the motion was seconded and carried with an "aye" vote. No roll-call tally was recorded on the meeting audio.

Council members cautioned that the discretionary fund is partially spent and urged monitoring the fund through the remainder of the fiscal year. Supporters said a second K-9 offers broader coverage and public-relations value; staff said the dogs would work about 40 hours each per week (approximately 80 hours combined).