The Kenai City Council enacted an ordinance increasing estimated revenues and appropriations in the general fund that will accept grants for the purchase of ballistic vests. The entire council was in favor and passed with seven ‘yes’ votes.
The Police Department participates in the United States Department of Justice’s Ballistic Vest Partnership, which provides grant funds for half the cost of officer ballistic vests. The City’s insurance carrier, Alaska Municipal League Joint Insurance Association (AMLJIA ), also has a grant program that covers the other half of the cost of the vests.
So far this fiscal year, the Police Department has purchased three ballistic vests for officers at a total of $4,239 and anticipates that the two programs will cover that cost 100%.
Five years is the expected product lifespan of the vests.
