Utica to partner with Saves Project to help first responders identify and assist vulnerable residents

The Utica City Council voted on Feb. 10 to partner with the Saves Project, a nonprofit program that provides a three-part approach—Saves ID (QR-based identification), the Blue Envelope traffic-stop kit and training—to improve communication and outcomes when first responders interact with people who have cognitive or developmental disabilities.

Chief Klusny introduced the Saves Project presentation and Thomas (identified in the presentation as Thomas Oak), a development coordinator and training specialist, described the program’s components: a registration process providing a QR-coded sticker or ID, a laminated 'about me' form and a Blue Envelope that residents keep in their vehicle visor so officers can see it during traffic stops. The Saves ID system uses a limited preview for the public (name and ID number) and a law‑enforcement login to access more detailed information such as emergency contacts, de‑escalation techniques and medical needs. The presenters emphasized that participation is voluntary and that departments can opt to register and manage their participants locally.

Council asked questions about outreach, data security and possible plate-based flagging; presenters said outreach so far has been by Facebook and word-of-mouth, and that law-enforcement access to detailed records requires secure logins. During Q&A officers suggested exploring partner queries with the Secretary of State to associate plates with a record, and the Saves representative agreed to explore that possibility.

Council moved to partner with the Saves Project, to have the Utica Police Department register (a $100 yearly registration fee) and to have the department cover packet costs for Utica residents; the motion passed unanimously.