Police present speed-trailer data; board approves grant-funded in-car computer upgrades

Police Chief (identified in meeting remarks as the chief) presented a summary of speed-trailer data sampled in August and September. For the week of Aug. 15–21 the device recorded 2,001 vehicles and 167 'violators' by the meeting’s metric; staff noted that the measurement thresholds and placement affect results. The chief summarized that weekday daily average speeds were about 17 mph on roads where a 15-mph target was used, and weekend averages rose to roughly 24–26 mph where passenger vehicles dominate.

The chief emphasized that the trailers serve as a visual deterrent and that the 85th-percentile analysis shows expected patterns by day and vehicle type. "It's a good visual reminder for them," the chief said, noting the device prompted a measurable reduction in average speeds during measured weeks. Board members asked about high outliers and whether the devices show top speeds; staff said detailed logs could be pulled separately for peak speeds.

Separately, the board approved Resolution 2025-88 to purchase GETAC in-car computers and mobile ticketing printers for the police department from Long Computer Services LLC. City staff said the purchase will be funded through a Missouri Blue Shield grant and will cost the city nothing from the general fund; the technology is expected to integrate with e-ticketing and court systems once the new firewall and software configurations are finished. "This purchase would come through the Blue Shield grant — no cost to the city," staff said.

Next steps: police staff will provide additional data if the board wants more frequent reporting; procurement will proceed under the grant for the in-car systems and equipment deployment.