ADMINISTRATION - Brian Podany, Safety Services Manager/Chief of Police
Title
2021 LESS LETHAL 40MM LAUNCHERS
Background
In the adoption of the 2021 Capital Budget, Council appropriated funding for certain pieces of equipment in the Capital Equipment Plan. Pursuant to the City Charter, Sec. 6.05, staff is now requesting Council approval for the purchase of the launchers listed below. The actual purchase of the 40mm launchers will be in 2021 and the launchers will be purchased from vendors using the State Cooperative Purchasing Program. Due to the ordering process for these launchers and to avoid delivery dates late into the year, it is necessary to make specific purchases as close to the beginning of the year as possible. This new equipment replaces our current less lethal force option. Currently we use a 12 gauge shotgun with a “bean bag” round. This new piece of equipment shoots a “foam” projectile. This foam projectile is more effective at both closer and further ranges, making it safer for both a subject and an officer. The equipment falls in line with our desire for the sanctity of life, research done by the deadly force encounters working group, and 21st Century Policing.
The purchase of these launchers is the first step in preparing them for use. Subsequent steps include the purchase and installation of the associated equipment, accessories, and munitions. While the purchase of the equipment, accessories, and munitions will occur at a later time, the entire cost of the launchers is included in the 2021 budget appropriations. This request includes both the purchase of the launchers and purchase of equipment/accessories/munitions.
# of Cost Estimated Adopted Vending
Capital Item Units per Unit Total Cost Budget Total Source
Less Lethal
Launcher 24 $1,626 $39,024 $41,000 State Contract
Total $41,000
Recommendation
By motion, approve 2021 Capital Equipment Purchases from the State Cooperative Purchasing Program for the equipment and related setup costs in the amount of $41,000.