The City of Sparks Police Department has had a renewed K-9 program since approximately 2005. Currently, the department has three police service dogs in service. Typical equipment for a police service dog includes a bullet resistant vest.

Bullet resistant vests have a limited service life, and must be periodically replaced. This is due to breakdown of the materials which the vests are made of. Our most recent addition to the K-9 corps (K-9 Rox) has not yet been fitted for a vest. When she was obtained late last year, she was not yet fully grown and the decision was made to wait to order a vest for her until she was. K-9 Hitch is currently using an expired vest.

Three citizens have been in contact with the Sparks Police Department, and they have expressed a desire to provide the funds to purchase a vest. Dr. John Crumley and his wife Juleanne wish to donate funds to be used to purchase K-9 Rox's vest.

Bruce Jacobson and Gloria Derby wish to donate the funds to purchase K-9 Hitch's vest.

Pursuant to Section 2.090 of the Sparks City Charter, the City of Sparks may acquire personal property or gifts. The City of Sparks may accept the donation to the Sparks Police Department.

The City Council could choose not to accept the donation, which would have an impact on the Police Department requiring the use of more seizure funds.

I move to accept funds from citizens to purchase bullet resistant vests for two police service dogs.