Title
Consider and take action on a resolution authorizing the submission of a grant application to the Office of the Governor for the FY2026 First Responder Mental Health Program to provides services for peace officers and first responders addressing the trauma that occurs from their normal duties and authorizing the acceptance of such a grant if awarded (Chief of Police)
Background:
If approved, this resolution will formalize City Council’s support for seeking grant funding that will provide services and assistance directly to peace officers and first responders to address direct and indirect trauma that occurs in the course of their normal duties either as the result of the commission of crimes by other persons or in response to an emergency.
Implementing an officer wellness and resilience program is essential for ensuring the health, safety, and effectiveness of our police department, which directly impacts the quality of service provided to our community. Law enforcement officers face daily stressors, including exposure to traumatic events and high-pressure situations, which can lead to mental health challenges like PTSD, depression, and anxiety, as well as physical health issues such as cardiovascular disease. A proactive wellness program addresses these risks, helping officers build resilience and maintain both mental and physical well-being.
Healthy officers perform better, make sounder decisions, and engage more positively with the public, fostering trust and stronger community relationships. Additionally, such programs reduce absenteeism, burnout, and turnover, saving the city money on recruitment, training, and healthcare costs in the long term. By aligning with best practices endorsed by organizations like the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), this initiative positions our city as a leader in modern, progressive policing.
Investing in officer wellness not only supports those who serve but also enhances public safety and demonstrates our city’s commitment to creating a professional, compassionate, and sustainable police department.
If approved, the Department will request $15,000 in training funds to help train a cadre of staff to implement the HeartMath curriculum within the organization. This curriculum helps officers recognize and implement strategies to reduce or combat the negative physiological and psychological effects of critical incident stress. If the grant is funded, it requires a 20% cash or in-kind match. The Department is prepared to cover this 20% match out of existing budgeted training funds.
Attachments:
1. Proposed Resolution
2. First Responder Mental Health Program Grant, FY2026
3. First Responder Mental Health Program FY2026 Grant Application Pre-Approval Form
CONTRACT ORIGINATION:
FUNDING
{X} If approved, funding in the amount of $3,000 will be available in Police Training and Travel account 2200000-53440 in FY2026, upon Council’s approval of the FY2026 budget.
STRATEGIC PLANNING
{ X } NOT APPLICABLE