The Billings Police Department proposed to purchase two police canines with the understanding that the funds used for the purchase would come from donations and that any shortfall of funds would come from drug forfeiture funds.  There are no shortfalls and the canines and associated costs will be purchased with donations. Police canines are essential to law enforcement in detecting drugs and the apprehension of criminals.  The police canines are also critical to minimize officer risk.  $19,000 is needed to purchase the canines.  Various donors wish to donate funds in excess of $500 to the Billings Police Department to purchase a Police Canine.  Council policy requires that any donation of more than $500 must be approved by the City Council.  City Council is being asked to accept the donations listed below. 

Kenco Enterprises	$1,000
Downtown Exchange Club of Billings	$1,500
Sheckleton, George and Olivia	$500

  

The City Council may:

• Accept the donations to purchase a Police Canine; or
• Not accept the donations for the Police Canine.  Drug forfeiture funds would have to be used to purchase the animals.

These donations will afford the Billings Police Department the opportunity to purchase a police canine without using City funds. 

Staff recommends that the City Council accept the donations as described above.