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Consider a memorandum/resolution authorizing City of Killeen officials to submit the grant application for the Fiscal Year 2026 Bullet-Resistant Components for Law Enforcement Vehicles Grant and to accept any subsequently awarded grant.
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DATE: January 6, 2026
TO: Kent Cagle, City Manager
FROM: Pedro Lopez, Chief of Police
SUBJECT: FY 2026 Grant Application for Bullet Resistant Vehicle Components
BACKGROUND AND FINDINGS:
Policing is widely accepted as a dangerous profession, with research showing a high percentage of officers killed or injured in the line of duty suffering those injuries as a result of gun violence. This violence often occurs during ambush attacks, on traffic stops, and when interacting with people experiencing mental health crises. Recent examples in Killeen have underscored the reality of the risk officers face in the performance of their duties, to include the risk of firearm assaults while inside and nearby their police vehicles. Additional efforts are necessary to supplement the ballistic protection we provide our first responders in the field.
In FY 25-26, The Office of the Governor made available a one-year grant, for the purpose of installing bullet-resistant components in police vehicles. The Killeen Police Department would like to apply for it. If awarded, this grant will allow the Department to install bullet-resistant windshields, side windows and door panels in up to 50 vehicles. The vehicles identified to receive this protection are marked units assigned to officers engaged in traffic enforcement/investigation, violent crime interdiction, downtown law enforcement, and community engagement/ homeless outreach. The Office of the Governor requires a resolution authorizing the City Manager or Director of Finance to apply for the grant, and council approval is also required to accept any subsequent award.
In the event of loss or misuse of grant funds, the City agrees to return all funds to the Office of the Gov...
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