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Police chief outlines renewed interest and fundraising for K-9 program; assembly previously declined
Summary
Police chief reported renewed public interest and private donations toward a proposed K-9 program; the assembly had earlier voted down the program but may revisit it closer to budget time.
Police Chief (Kerr) updated the Public Safety Advisory Board on renewed public interest and private pledges for a proposed police K-9 program, saying residents and organizations have offered money but that formal approval must come from the Borough Assembly.
Chief Kerr said PIA (using opiate settlement funds) has approved a $14,000 donation and First Bank recently contributed $500. Other individuals have offered support, and organizers are fielding daily questions about how citizens can back the program. "If you wanna make a contribution to it, just state it in [a letter to the assembly], but don't actually send the money right now until we get a 501(c)(3) and until it gets approved by the assembly," the chief said, advising supporters to send letters of support instead of funds.
The chief told the board that the assembly originally voted the proposal down and asked for it to be revisited closer to the budget process; the department has since identified startup and annual costs. He said startup could be covered from seizure funds and remaining budget balances and vehicle replacement timing, but estimated annual maintenance (training and other recurring costs) at about $14,200 per year. The chief noted outside partners — including CCAD — have offered help covering some training costs, which would reduce the annual borough obligation.
Board members asked whether cost was the objection; chief and staff responded that the assembly wanted to discuss timing and budget impacts. A representative said Petersburg Mental Health has also explored an independent dog program and may partner or contribute funds.
No formal motion or assembly action on the K-9 program occurred at the advisory board meeting. Board members were informed to expect the assembly to consider the program again during upcoming budget discussions.
