Title
A Resolution expressing commitment to public safety, including a commitment to reduce violent crime, within the City of Lee’s Summit in support of Missouri Executive Order 25-03 from Governor Mike Kehoe and the Blue Shield Program.
Body
A resolution from the Lee's Summit City Council expressing commitment to public safety, including a commitment to reduce violent crime, is a foundational requirement for participation in the Missouri Blue Shield Program established by Governor Mike Kehoe's Executive Order 25-03. The Executive Order seeks to recognize local governments that are committed to public safety within their communities. This resolution serves as formal documentation of the City of Lee’s Summit’s dedication to these critical aspects of community well-being.
The City of Lee's Summit demonstrably meets the requirements for the Blue Shield Program through several key actions. The local government has committed to public safety and crime reduction, as evidenced by its history of extraordinary investments in public safety over the past five years, including significant funding increases for personnel, technology, and infrastructure supported by bond elections and a public safety sales tax. The community participates in policing initiatives such as Crisis Intervention Teams, School Resource Officers, and community advisory boards, and the city has partnered with local stakeholders in significant ways, particularly with mental health and drug treatment providers, the school district, and local non-profits. The Lee's Summit Police Department has also demonstrated effectiveness in reducing crime through innovative programs like the Crime Reduction Team and the SNAP program and actively participates in regional anti-crime task forces, including those focused on internet crimes against children, drug trafficking, and major crimes. The police department complies with mandated Missouri statutes related to crime reporting, officer training and certification, and use-of-force transparency. The city has documented its law enforcement agency’s recent accomplishments and outlined its goals for the coming year and the next five years, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement in public safety
Key Issues:
This is the resolution that would express the City Council’s support commitment to public safety, including a commitment to reduce violent crime, providing opportunities to apply for funding under the Missouri Blue Shield Program referenced in Governor Mike Kehoe’s Executive Order 25-03.
Proposed City Council Motion:
I move for approval of Resolution 2025-___.
Background:
The Blue Shield Program is a public safety initiative in Missouri aimed at enhancing law enforcement support and strengthening community partnerships. The program provides financial assistance, training, and resources to local governments committed to improving public safety. By promoting collaboration between law enforcement, government agencies, and the community, the Blue Shield Program seeks to enhance officer retention, provide advanced training, and improve equipment for law enforcement agencies.
Local governments that meet specific law enforcement standards may qualify for the Blue Shield designation, granting them access to state-funded grants designed to support public safety initiatives. The Missouri Department of Public Safety will oversee the program, ensuring that funding is distributed effectively and used to enhance policing efforts.
Impact/Analysis:
Applying for Blue Shield Program consideration for the City of Lee's Summit would primarily serve to formally recognize and support the city's ongoing commitment to public safety as outlined in Governor Kehoe's Executive Order 25-03. Governor Kehoe's "Blue Shield Program" in Missouri is designed to recognize and support local governments committed to enhancing public safety and fostering law enforcement partnerships. Communities that achieve the Blue Shield designation become eligible for state grants aimed at improving law enforcement training and equipment. Governor Kehoe has proposed allocating $10 million in grant funding for these purposes. The exact amount of funding may vary, and these figures are subject to approval by the Missouri General Assembly. The Department of Public Safety will administer the program and review applications from local governments seeking the Blue Shield designation
Timeline:
Start: ___
Finish: ___
Other Information/Unique Characteristics:
N/A
Presenter
Travis Forbes, Police Chief
Recommendation
Staff recommends approval.