Sheriff seeks grant for body-worn cameras and courthouse security, and requests conditional approval for two cruisers
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Summary
The sheriff asked commissioners to authorize applications for a Small Rural body-worn camera grant (50/50 match) and for FY2027 congressionally directed courthouse-security funding (up to $200,000). Commissioners voted to apply for both. The board also conditionally authorized purchase/lease of two upfitted cruisers pending lease terms.
Sheriff (identified in the meeting record as Speaker 10) asked the board to authorize application for two near-term funding opportunities and presented a fleet purchase request.
Body-worn cameras: The sheriff requested permission to apply for a Small Rural (SRT) body-worn camera grant with an 11:59 p.m. Pacific-time deadline on March 12. He described a five-year package (Axon/Taser example) for 11 units and cloud storage with an estimated total cost of about $40,000, noting the program typically runs in five-year cycles and that the countys share could be phased. "I think it's time for us to get body cams," the sheriff said. The board voted to authorize applying for the grant while staff continue vendor testing and pricing.
Courthouse security congressional funding: The sheriff also flagged a time-sensitive FY2027 congressionally directed spending opportunity routed through U.S. Sen. Jean Shaheen's office with a March 6 deadline. He proposed applying for up to $200,000 to install perimeter fencing under the courthouse port, control parking and prisoner off-load areas, and install approximately 26 electronically controlled interior doors. The sheriff said the estimate is preliminary and based on prior quotes and that staff will seek refreshed quotes if the board desires; commissioners authorized pursuing the application.
Cruiser acquisition: The sheriff presented quotes for two fully upfitted Ford Explorer police-model cruisers that match a state bid price ($42,870 each) and upfit costs estimated at $18,825 per car, for an estimated total of $130,090 after trade-ins, to be amortized over a three-year lease. Commissioners conditionally authorized the purchase, contingent on receiving lease-payment details and exact lease terms within the next week.
What officials said: The sheriff and his chief deputy described positive local experience with body-worn cameras and vendor test results. Chief Deputy Jim noted cameras reduced complaints in prior use cases. On courthouse fencing, the sheriff clarified the plan would control the under-port parking flow and preserve public entrances and accessible parking; he said controlled-access measures could be provided for those who need them.
Next steps: Staff will complete grant applications before the respective deadlines, gather firm quotes for courthouse security work, and provide lease-payment terms for the cruiser acquisition for final approval.
