Sparks City Council Meeting 4/27/2020 2:00:00 PM
Meeting Link:Meeting Dial-in #: (669) 900-6833 Meeting ID: 931 6367 1293
General Business: 9.3
A Business Impact Statement is not required because this is not a rule.
VirTra training simulators use five screens to create a life-like virtual reality training theater police agencies use to train officers in use of force scenarios and decision-making. The Police Department has identified a NV JAG Grant opportunity that would fully fund the purchase of such a simulator if awarded.
Background:
The Sparks Police Department would like to apply for a grant that, if awarded, would completely fund the purchase of a VirTra Firearms Training Simulator, a judgmental use of force and decision-making training simulator designed to create an intense, immersive training environment. The approximate cost of the simulator is $84,000. The department intends to use a grant writer to complete the application process. Hiring a grant writer to complete the aplication will cost $2,500.00; budget authority exists for the expenditure.
Analysis:
The VirTra Firearms Training Simulator is the only simulator currently on the market that meets the needs of the department. This training simulator can account for a number of training issues now required by state law. This simulator is recognized by the National POST (Peace Officer Standards and Training) Directors organization as specifically addressing, Fair and Impartial Policing, Implicit Biased Based Policing, De-escalation and De-confliction, as well as other categories through multiple stress-induced, scenario-based realistic training models.
The deadline to apply for this grant is May 29, 2020.
Alternatives:
1. Council may grant approval to apply for the grant.
2. Council could direct the Police Department not to apply for the grant and provide further direction to the City Manager.
Recommended Motion:
I move to direct the Police Department to apply for a NV JAG Grant in the amount of approximately $84,000, for the purpose of purchasing a VirTra Firearms Training Simulator.