Perry council approves grant applications, paves way for city K‑9 unit

The Perry City Council voted to authorize grant applications and related program expenses to establish a K‑9 unit for the Perry Police Department. Council approved a resolution to apply for two grants (one for $12,000 to cover the dog and another ~$7,500 for training) and to use previously budgeted funds for vehicle upfit.

During a detailed presentation, department staff described the dog — a dual‑purpose Dutch Shepherd named Groot — and the unit’s expected duties, including narcotics detection, tracking fleeing suspects and conducting building searches. “Our mission is basically to bring him here,” the presenting officer said, outlining a fundraising strategy that mixes grant applications with local donations and events. Staff estimated one‑time costs (dog, training, vehicle upfit) and recurring costs (handler overtime and veterinary medicines) and said routine veterinary care has been pledged in‑kind by a local clinic.

The council also approved the form of a K‑9 officer service agreement that binds the handler’s service to the working life of the dog and sets repayment terms if a handler leaves before the dog’s service life concludes. City staff gave a projected timeline: post the specialty position immediately, interview applicants the following week, send the selected handler and dog to a 10–12‑week training class beginning August 3, and return the certified team to service in the fall. Council members emphasized accountability and tracking: deployment metrics and case reporting will be part of routine council updates.

The resolution to pursue grant funding passed by roll call.