TO: Honorable Mayor & Members of the North Port Commission
FROM: Peter D. Lear, CPA, CGMA, City Manager
TITLE: Approve the Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. K9 Vest Recipient Application and acceptance of bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance for current and future K9 Officers.
Recommended Action
Approve the Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. K9 Vest Recipient Application and acceptance of bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance for current and future K9 Officers.
Background Information
The mission of the Vested Interest in K9s (VIK9s) is to raise awareness and funds to donate bullet and stab protective vest and other assistance to K9s of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. The 501c(3), Massachusetts based organization, provides the vests at no cost to eligible agencies.
Current protective vests for our K9s are bullet protection only and are not stab resistant. Receiving bullet and stab protective vests will increase the safety of the North Port Police Department's K9s. The K9s are an integral part of the Department and can be put in harm's way when responding to calls which result in direct involvement with dangerous subjects and/or circumstances. The K9s are also considered valuable assets of the Department, with hours of vital training and specific agency roles. Protecting our K9s from potential harm is paramount.
Receiving the vests through the VIK9s grant will save the Department thousands of dollars which would otherwise be required to purchase vests needed to properly protect the K9s. In partnership with VIK9s, the North Port Police Department will provide VIK9s with 2 high quality photos of each K9 applicant and submit local press releases upon notification and receipt of the award.
The Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. K9 Vest Recipient Application has been reviewed by the City Attorney and is legally correct as to form.
Strategic Plan
Maintain the adopted level of health and public safety se...
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