Title
Briefing on the Olympia Police Department Gun Buy-Back Program
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Receive a briefing on the Olympia Police Department Gun Buy-Back Program. Briefing only; no action requested.
Report
Issue:
Whether to receive briefing on the Gun Buy-Back program.
Staff Contact:
Rich Allen, Chief, Olympia Police Department, 360.753.8147
Presenter(s):
Rich Allen, Chief, Olympia Police Department
Background and Analysis:
In August 2022, The Olympia Police Department implemented a firearm destruction program so individuals with unwanted firearms could safely and legally turn in their weapons.
In December 2022, the City Council authorized using 2022 Council Goal Money to incentivize the program by providing $15,000 in pre-paid visa give cards in $200 increments.
Police Chief Rich Allen will provide an update on the firearm destruction program and the buy-back event held January 31, 2023.
Climate Analysis:
It is not believed that the firearm surrender program has affected climate issues. The firearms turned into the department for destruction are transported out of the area to be destroyed. However, the department is not making a dedicated trip to accomplish this. The firearms are added to a “run” of other evidence that needs to be destroyed. The fuel economy impact is de minimis.
Equity Analysis:
The gun surrender program benefits all community members, as having fewer firearms in circulation reduces the number that end up in the hand of criminals, which reduces the likelihood of injuries from firearms. We do not anticipate any groups to be burdened by the program. The program is confidential; those who turn in firearms can remain anonymous.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
This is a program which is open to the entire community. The community has an interest in knowing what police programs are available, and an expectation of understanding how the allocated funds were used.
Financial Impact:
Council had previously allocated $15,000 for this incentive program. Those funds were exhausted during the first “buy back” event. As of now, there are no further funds dedicated to the program.
Options:
1. Receive the briefing on the Olympia Police Department Gun Buy-Back Program.
2. Receive the briefing at another time.
3. Do not receive the briefing.
Attachments:
None