South Jacksonville trustees weigh $105,198 radio replacement and other police equipment needs

Treasurer Mindy Olson told the Committee of the Whole that the 2026 budget is being narrowed and that several line items are being relocated to reflect operating responsibilities, including moving traffic lights into the streets budget. She said staff is auditing utility bills and refining capital estimates ahead of a public hearing and Board vote at the next meeting.

Police Chief Eric Hansell outlined a package of urgent equipment needs for the department and gave a cost estimate for the proposed radio replacement: "The radio system cost for the Police Department would be around $105,198," he said, and warned, "If it is not done, they will have no radio system." Hansell also noted a countywide move to an e-ticket system that will require installing printers in each patrol vehicle (about $448 per printer; the department estimates eight patrol cars) and said the village currently has roughly $5,000 in e-ticket funds to help offset that cost. He raised a weapons-safety concern about the Sig Sauer P320, saying it "is firing on its own, which is the pistol that the department uses," and outlined replacement costs (about $460 per pistol and $160 per holster), asking the board to add roughly $6,000 to the weapons budget.

Trustees discussed the timing and funding options, including whether surplus or other general-fund dollars could be reallocated. No formal vote on the radio or weapons purchases was taken; Olson requested the Board schedule a public hearing and place the budget on the next regular meeting for formal consideration.

Speakers: Treasurer Mindy Olson; Police Chief Eric Hansell; Trustee Paula Belobrajdic-Stewart; Trustee Steve Retzer.