Commission hears split views on FDLE-funded firearm simulator; resident warns of prototype risks

Commissioners heard competing views on a firearm safety training simulator paid for with an FDLE grant.

Cameron Welsh, a local software developer and first-time speaker, told the commission he examined the vendor brochure and publicly available materials and judged the product to be "kitbashing" — assembled prototype components — rather than a finished training product. "From what I saw in the brochure...it seems equatable in quality to a kitbash," Welsh said, urging closer vetting before further spending.

The police chief replied that the system is an advanced training platform used by law‑enforcement agencies statewide and that the department vetted capabilities at the Florida Police Chiefs Conference. "This is an advanced training system that many, many law enforcement agencies in the state of Florida use," the chief said, adding the grant funding makes the program a superior firearm-safety tool and a community outreach asset.

During later public input Welsh reiterated concerns that vendors who sell prototype-like products often return seeking more money in subsequent years and urged commissioners to scrutinize any future funding requests. Commissioners and staff noted the grant originates from FDLE and that, while the funding offsets purchase cost, the city should remain attentive to total lifecycle costs and training value.

The commission did not defer or reverse the FDLE-funded item during the meeting; staff and the chief said they would continue to monitor program performance and implementation.