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Fond du Lac council approves JAG application to buy suppressors for SWAT rifles
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Summary
The Fond du Lac City Council voted April 22 to authorize submission of a $14,866 Justice Assistance Grant to buy suppressors for department rifles, with police officials saying the devices reduce hearing damage and improve communication during high‑risk operations.
President Keith Heisler said the council would consider a resolution to approve submitting a Justice Assistance Grant application for fiscal year 2025. Chief Goldstein told the council the city is eligible for $14,866 in grant funding and that it is a formula grant with no local match required.
Chief Goldstein said the department plans to use the funding to purchase suppressors for SWAT rifles, noting the department recently replaced 15 rifles that were near end of life. "These suppressors are proven safety measures during high risk operations," he said, adding that suppressors reduce extreme noise in confined environments, lower the risk of immediate hearing damage, and help officers communicate and maintain situational awareness.
Goldstein said the replaced rifles date from about 30 years ago and that the suppressors were not previously funded in the department's operational replacement budget. He asked the council for approval to submit the grant application so the city could take advantage of the eligible funds later in 2026.
Council members did not ask follow-up questions during the public presentation. The presiding officer called for a motion; the resolution authorizing submission of the JAG application passed unanimously.
Why it matters: The JAG program is a federal formula grant that funds criminal justice equipment and programs. The council’s approval allows the police department to pursue a limited, no‑match federal award for equipment the chief says will reduce risks to officers during high‑risk entries. The grant amount is $14,866 and the application, as described by the chief, requests funds specifically for suppressors; the transcript notes there is no local match requirement.
Next steps: Staff will submit the JAG application and, if awarded, return with any required purchase documentation and implementation steps for council review.
