Title
An Ordinance approving the purchase of a Virtual Reality Training System from V-Armed Inc., for an amount not to exceed $351,000 and authorizing the City Manager to execute the same by and on behalf of the City of Lee's Summit, Missouri.
Body
Issue/Request:
An Ordinance approving the purchase of a Virtual Reality Training System from V-Armed Inc., for an amount not to exceed $351,000 and authorizing the City Manager to execute the same by and on behalf of the City of Lee's Summit, Missouri.
Key Issues:
Traditional police training often depends on real-world environments and live scenarios, which can pose safety risks and logistical challenges. Physical exercises like use-of-force simulations carry the potential for injury and require extensive coordination, specialized facilities, and temporary use of outside spaces. These factors limit the frequency and consistency of training opportunities across the department.
A virtual reality (VR) training system offers a modern, safe, and efficient alternative. VR allows officers to experience realistic, scenario-based training within a controlled environment, replicating critical incidents such as traffic stops, domestic disturbances, or crisis situations without physical danger. Because training occurs virtually, it eliminates the need to secure external locations or coordinate complex logistics, reducing costs and improving accessibility.
VR’s adaptability allows scenarios to be quickly customized to reflect departmental priorities or local challenges, and the immersive realism engages officers on both cognitive and emotional levels. This helps strengthen decision-making, communication, and de-escalation skills under pressure.
Overall, virtual reality training enhances officer preparedness and safety while minimizing logistical barriers, offering a versatile and scalable tool to meet modern policing needs.
To acquire a solution to address our training needs, RFP #2026-018 was released. Five firms responded to the solicitation:
- Augmented Training Systems Inc.
- Maven Technologies, LLC (Peerless VR)
- RAMROD XR
- V-Armed Inc.
- VirTra Inc.
Proposals were reviewed by a committee of three, including staff from the Police Department and the Information Technology Department. After proposal reviews, V-Armed Inc. was selected as most advantageous to the City.
Proposed City Council Motion:
FIRST MOTION: I move for second reading of An Ordinance Approving the Purchase of a Virtual Reality Training System from V-Armed Inc., for an amount not to exceed $351,000 and authorizing the City Manager to execute the same by and on behalf of the City of Lee's Summit, Missouri.
SECOND MOTION: I move for adoption of An Ordinance Approving the Purchase of a Virtual Reality Training System from V-Armed Inc., for an amount not to exceed $351,000 and authorizing the City Manager to execute the same by and on behalf of the City of Lee's Summit, Missouri.
Impact/Analysis:
If the City does not implement a virtual reality training system:
1. Officers will miss out on realistic, repeatable scenario training that builds decision-making and de-escalation skills in a controlled environment.
2. Traditional training methods will continue to demand more personnel, facilities, and scheduling coordination, reducing overall training frequency and efficiency.
3. Officers could be less equipped to manage dynamic, high-pressure incidents safely and effectively.
Timeline:
Start: upon passage of the agreement
Presenter
Captain Michael Ervin
Recommendation
Staff recommends approval
Committee Recommendation