Monona amends police pursuit policy to authorize grappler device; training and per‑use costs noted

The Monona Common Council approved Dec. 1 an amendment to the police department’s vehicle pursuit policy to include the grappler device as an approved pursuit intervention tool.

A police representative told the council the department anticipates it would take about six months to receive and install the device and to complete training. He noted each use of the device requires a one‑time consumable strap that costs roughly $400 per deployment. The representative said the department has budget capacity in the operating fund to cover initial consumable costs and staff training; he also said some departments rely on warranties or manufacturer support for replacement parts for related tools such as tire-deflation devices.

Councilors asked whether the device would be purchased from operating or capital funds, how frequently it might be used, and what policies would govern deployment. The chief said the policy amendment authorizes the tool but that actual procurement, training and replacement purchases would be managed by the department and reported back to council as needed. No public comments were recorded on the item.

On voice vote the council approved the policy amendment; staff will proceed with procurement planning, establish training timelines, and report on costs and deployment experience as part of routine departmental reporting.