Eagle police introduce new deputy, council approves STEP traffic enforcement grant

Police Chief Travis Ruby introduced Deputy Brad (a recent transfer from the Ada County Sheriff’s Office) and provided the department’s monthly report, then the council approved staff’s request to apply for the STEP selective traffic enforcement program grant.

Chief Ruby described Deputy Brad’s background in booking and intake, his transition to patrol in September 2023, and his local ties including attendance at Eagle High School. The chief also summarized department performance: a three-month decline in proactive societal crimes (DUI and drug enforcement), a reduced emergency response time noted for the month, a recent seizure of about 4.5 grams of methamphetamine, and nearly 350 man-hours spent on traffic-related enforcement for the month.

Staff presented the STEP grant details: the program reimburses officer hours dedicated to traffic enforcement (the city may apply for up to 2,088 regular hours plus up to 200 overtime hours), allows limited benefit reimbursement and requires a city match (historically around 25%). Chief Ruby and staff said the department’s October reimbursement submittal listed roughly $20,859 in eligible hours and urged continuing the application process for year two to maintain traffic-enforcement funding.

Councilmember Mary Russell and others supported applying for the grant; Russell made the motion to approve the STEP grant application and council approved it by roll call. Chief Ruby said the grant reduces costs to taxpayers and helps sustain traffic enforcement activity.

No change to staffing levels was authorized at the meeting beyond continuing the city’s application effort; staff noted the grant awards depend on available funds and that the percentage split can vary year to year.