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City approves $6,458 repair after police drone rescue of swimmer
Summary
A police drone that located a swimmer at risk in Lake Charloid sank after extended flight during the rescue. Staff recommended repair at $6,458.10; commissioners approved the expenditure after discussion of warranties and insurance coverage.
A Boyne City police drone used to locate and assist a swimmer in distress sustained extensive water damage when the aircraft was forced into the lake after extended use during a rescue, officials said.
Police said the drone allowed first responders to find the despondent female and that, without the aerial search, rescuers might not have located her. The pilot, identified in meeting remarks as Tim Wy, kept the drone aloft longer than standard because it was a last-resort effort. When the craft landed in the water, it remained operational for roughly ten minutes underwater but sustained physical damage.
Unmanned Vehicle Technologies LLC — the city’s vendor — inspected the drone and provided a repair estimate of $6,458.10. Staff recommended repair by the original vendor, noting that alternate quotes would require returning the drone to the vendor and shipping it to additional repair shops. During public comment, residents supported the repair decision, stressing the life-saving benefit of the drone.
Officials explained warranties and insurance limitations: the damage is likely excluded from warranty because the drone was operated beyond recommended battery limits, and the city’s current insurance covers liability for third-party damage, not damage to the drone itself. Staff said they will discuss future insurance options with the city manager to determine appropriate coverage for expensive equipment.
The commission approved the expenditure to effect repairs and instructed staff to explore insurance and procurement options for future equipment.
