Implementation of Less-Lethal Impact Launchers

The City of Bloomington, the Town of Normal and the County of McLean are all disparate jurisdictions. Each agency has elected to use the shared funding on individual projects. The Bloomington Police Department seeks to enhance its use-of-force options by implementing 40mm less-lethal foam launchers as a new tool in its arsenal. These launchers will provide officers with the ability to deploy force from a greater distance than existing tools such as pepper spray or tasers, offering a safer alternative to firearms in high-risk situations. The introduction of the 40mm launchers significantly expands the number of scenarios where officers can utilize less-lethal methods, reducing the need for lethal force. This capability is especially critical when dealing with individuals in mental health crises, or those acting irrationally due to heightened duress, such as being apprehended during the commission of a violent crime. By adopting these launchers, the Bloomington Police Department aims to increase public safety and the likelihood of preserving life in volatile situations, providing officers with more effective and humane options in their responses. The McLean County Sheriff's Office is seeking funding to expand its equipping of officers with higher-level ballistics plates and helmets (both with carriers). By expanding the program, additional officers will have easy access to personal protective equipment that is capable of withstanding a higher caliber weapon projectile. Officers, therefore, increase their ability to survive an encounter with an active shoot who is armed with a high caliber weapon. The Town of Normal is seeking funding for an intelligent speed measuring (radar) trailer system, and two radar equipped signs. The requested equipment is a Traffic Logix Safe Pace Cruiser LT trailer and two Traffic Logix Evolution 18 speed radar signs. This system will provide the Department a way to monitor and record traffic speeds in certain areas when resources are not available to be present. The system can record data for analytics, helping to guide enforcement. This traffic safety solution will be used for public safety purposes, providing immediate feedback to motorists. The system has been selected using the Town of Normal procurement process.