Title
Approval of the authorization of the Social Justice and Equity Commission Chairs to sign a letter of support requesting federal funding for body worn and in-vehicle camera equipment for the Olympia Police Department
Recommended Action
Move to approval of the authorization of the Social Justice and Equity Commission Chairs to sign a letter of support requesting federal funding for body worn and in-vehicle camera equipment for the Olympia Police Department.
Report
Issue:
Whether to approval of the authorization of the Social Justice and Equity Commission Chairs to sign a letter of support requesting federal funding for body worn and in-vehicle camera equipment for the Olympia Police Department.
Staff Contact:
Rich Allen, Chief of Police, Olympia Police Department, 360.753.8411
Presenter(s):
Rich Allen, Chief of Police, Olympia Police Department
Background and Analysis:
The Olympia Police Department (OPD) is dedicated to building and retaining the community's trust with professional policing and transparency. OPD's use of body worn cameras and in-car video is vital to accomplishing this goal.
The cost to purchase and maintain body worn cameras for 95 sworn police officers and cameras for 30 police vehicles is significant. The body camera and in-car video program are currently funded by using existing monies found in the City's General Fund. The City is facing a potential budget shortfall in fiscal years 2025 and beyond.
The department is pursuing federal funding to ensure the department has a dedicated funding stream to secure the program's existence. The City is seeking $441,628 to offset this expense and provide every officer and patrol vehicle with updated technology.
The Chief of Police will brief the Commission on the funding request and seek approval for the Commission Chairs to sign a letter of support to our Federal Delegation for the City's funding request.
Climate Analysis:
This project is not expected to have an impact on greenhouse ...
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